ABOUT SEE & DO EAT & DRINK STAY FESTIVALS NEARBY
ABOUT
Popularly referred to as Metro Manila, the National Capital Region is the seat of government and one of the three defined metropolitan areas in the country.
Location
Best Time to Visit
For the best combination of agreeable temperatures of around 27° C (80° F) and as little rain as possible, the best time to visit this region is between February and March. The first months of dry season can still be rainy, while the last months are usually pretty hot and humid.
Fast Facts
The following are interesting facts about this province:
Area: 619.7 km² (239.26 mi²)
Population: 13,485,300
Density: 18,641.5/km2
Regional Center: Manila
Cities/Towns:
NCR – National Capital Region
| CITY/TOWN | LAND AREA KM2 | POPULATION |
|---|---|---|
| Caloocan | 53 | 1,661,600 |
| Las Piñas | 32 | 606,300 |
| Makati | 27 | 629,700 |
| Malabon | 16 | 380,600 |
| Mandaluyong | 11 | 425,800 |
| Manila | 43 | 1,846,600 |
| Marikina | 23 | 456,100 |
| Muntinlupa | 42 | 543,500 |
| Navotas | 12 | 247,600 |
| Parañaque | 47 | 690,000 |
| Pasay | 19 | 440,700 |
| Pasig | 31 | 803,200 |
| Pateros | 2 | 65,300 |
| Quezon City | 165 | 2,960,100 |
| San Juan | 6 | 126,400 |
| Taguig | 45 | 886,800 |
| Valenzuela | 46 | 715,000 |
Total | 620 | 13,485,300 |
Cities: (16) Caloocan; Las Piñas; Makati; Malabon; Mandaluyong; City of Manila; Marikina; Muntinlupa; Navotas; Parañaque; Pasay; Pasig; Quezon City; San Juan; Taguig, Valenzuela
Barangays: 1,710
Major Industries:
- Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Mango, Coffee, Coconut)
- Food Processing
- Mass Transportation Operation
- Tourism
- Machinery
- Textiles and Garments
- Handicrafts and Furniture
Getting Here
The best way to get to NCR depends on where you’re traveling from and your budget.
The fastest and most convenient method of travel a far distance in the Philippines is most often by plane, however in some cases, traveling by sea or land may be a better option and more cost-effective.
Use the following online service to determine the various transportation options available to you based on your point of departure and your destination.
Getting Around
The following are the modes of transportation available in this region.
Bus
Car for Hire
Car Rental
Jeepneys
Ride-Sharing
Shuttle
Taxi
Trains
Tricycles
Motorcycles
Bicycles
Suggested Budget
Use the chart below to get an idea of how much to budget daily. Actual amounts will depend on YOUR travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages … some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less. Prices are in USD.
BEST NO-FEE INTERNATIONAL DEBIT & CREDIT CARDS
SEE & DO
- Art in Island Museum
- Ayala Center
- Ayala Museum
- Bamboo Organ at Saint Joseph Church
- Bonifacio High Street
- Casa Manila
- Cultural Center of the Philippines
- Fort Santiago
- Green Hills Shopping Center
- Intramuros
- Luglugan Pancit Malabon
- Malabon Tricycle Tour
- Malacañang Palace Museum
- Manila Cathedral
- Manila Chinatown
- Mind Museum
- National Museum
- Philippine International Convention Center
- Quezon Memorial Circle
- Rizal Park
- San Agustin Church and Museum
- University of Santo Tomas (UST)
- Uptown Bonifacio
EAT & DRINK
- Adobo
- Arroz Caldo
- Balut
- Bulalo
- Chicken Inasal
- Crispy Pata
- Dinuguan at puto
- Fish Tinola
- Halo-halo
- Kamaro
- Kare-kare
- Kinilaw
- Lechon
- Pancit Palabok
- Pansit Malabon
- Sinigang
- Sisig
- Taba ng talangka
- Tapa
WHERE TO STAY
Where to Stay in NCR
Use the following online resources to determine the best place for YOU to stay when visiting the NCR.
Book Online & Save Money
Book your room with these trusted online booking sites. Booking online in the Philippines almost always guarantees the best price and a room when you arrive. We use these sites frequently to get the best prices and enjoy convenient bookings. Click each of the buttons below to find the best place for you at the lowest rates.
EVENTS & FESTIVALS
- Aliwan Fiesta
- Balut sa Puti Festival
- Caracol Festival
- Feast of Black Nazarene (Quiapo, Manila)
- International Bamboo Organ Festival
- La Loma Lechon Festival
- Philippine International Pyromusical Competition
WHAT’S NEARBY
READ MORE: 17 Regions of the Philippines (with map)
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