Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or you are just quickly passing through, our Manila Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit. Here, you’ll find information on services and facilities available inside the airport – including details about airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, and everything in between.
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if your layover is long, do most of your waiting on [the] 4th floor before final security check as food choices and overall surroundings [are] much more pleasant than at the gates – a traveller at terminal 3
March 2024 – Manila media is reporting that gangs are hanging out in the airport and thefts have occurred. Sleeping in the public area of the airport is not recommended.
MNL Airport Overview
To help you plan your layover or overnight sleepover, here is a quick run-down about what to expect during your time at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
What to Expect
Manila Airport (code: MNL) is a large and often frustrating airport. It consists of four terminals (T1, T2, T3 and T4) allegedly connected by a shuttle bus. However, many travellers report that this bus often doesn’t operate, forcing you to take a taxi at an inflated price. T3 is the largest and newest terminal, and T1 has had some recent renovations. Combined, they handle most of the major airlines.
While travellers do report slight improvements at NAIA from year to year, you can still expect to wait in numerous long lines as you make your way to your flight. The airport has several shops and restaurants, with 24-hour options available in terminals 2 and 3; however, many are cash only, requiring you to find an ATM inside the airport. The airport reputedly offers free WiFi, but many report issues when they actually try to connect. For those looking for added comfort, there are first-class lounges, some of which have showers that economy-class passengers can pay to access.
Sleeping in Manila Airport
Past travellers do not recommend others sleep at Manila Airport unless they absolutely have to. While there are a number of chairs without armrests, most of the seating is made of metal. Terminal temperatures also seem to fluctuate between extremes, making it difficult to know whether you’ll need more layers – or less. If you must sleep here, T3 is apparently more comfortable than the others. Terminal 3, the newest of the four terminals, is your best bet for sleeping and amenities. Terminal 2 has the worst reputation, with few amenities, crowded seats, and no way to access other terminals, even on long layovers. Some travellers report signs prohibiting sleeping in certain areas, with fines for doing so – though we cannot confirm this.
One traveller has reported a free “transit lounge” in Terminal 2, on the ground floor, behind a ticket/security counter. There are firm leather couches and reclining lounge chairs.
If you would prefer to sleep in comfort and privacy, there are sleep rooms in Terminals 1 and 3 and several hotels nearby. See Airport Hotels in the guide below.
Read traveller airport reviews for more tips.
Good to Know
Beware of scams and take extra care of your belongings at Manila NAIA. There are a number of reports about bullet-planting scams, demands for bribes, broken CCTVs and general theft.
To help us keep this guide up-to-date, you can add or update information or write a review to submit airport tips and photos. You can also visit the airport’s website for current information. For more airport information, continue scrolling down to explore more in our Manila Airport Guide.
In this guide we may refer to locations as “landside” and “airside”. Landside is the public area of the terminal located in the non-secure zone, before security. Airside is the secure area of the terminal that you must reach by going through security.
Airport Hours
The airport is open 24 hours. However, there have been reports that travellers will not be permitted to enter the terminals until three hours prior to departure. The airport has denied this in news reports, so we really don’t know what to advise here. If you are in transit, you should have better luck, especially if you do not have to transfer terminals.
Rest & Relaxation Zones
There are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas or rest zones. If this information has changed, click here to update this guide.
Manila Airport Hotels & Day Rooms
Quick Facts
- Nearest Hotel: Inside the Airport
- Sleep Cabins & Pods: No
- Day Rooms: Yes
- Nearby Hotels with Free Shuttles: No
When the prospect of sleeping on the floor or in a chair is giving you nightmares, you may be better off staying at a hotel.
Hotels near Terminals 1 and 3
- Belmont Hotel Manila » Check Rates
- Manila Marriott Hotel » Check Rates
- Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport City » Check Rates
- Hilton Manila » Check Rates
- Hotel Okura Manila » Check Rates
- Savoy Hotel Manila » Check Rates
- Sheraton Manila Airport » Check Rates
For more options, visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels near Manila NAIA Airport that can be sorted by price, distance, traveller rating and popularity.
Airport Lounges
Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships
Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there are lounges that you can enter by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass or through a lounge membership program. Visit the individual lounge page for more details about the lounge itself and learn how to gain access with just an economy class ticket!
Terminal 1
- Marhaba Lounge – Location: Airside, International Departures, near Gate 9, West Satellite. Hours: 0:00AM – 12:00 AM. Showers are available. Lounge Access: Prepaid lounge pass • Lounge membership programs.
- PAGSS Lounge (Gate 7) – Location: Airside, East Concourse, next to Gate 7. Hours: open 24 hours. Lounge Access: Pay at the door.
- A Lounge – Location: Airside, International Departures, East Concourse, next to Gate 2. Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM. Lounge Access: Prepaid lounge pass • Lounge membership programs.
Terminal 3
- Marhaba Lounge – Location: Airside, International Departures. Hours: open 24 hours (Tue, Thu, Fri, and Sat) • 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Mon, Wed, and Sun).
- Pacific Club Lounge – (Temporarily Closed) – Location: Airside, Level 4. Showers are available. Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs.
- PAGSS Lounge – Location: Airside, Departure Area, Level 4. Showers are available. Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs.
- Skyview Lounge – Location: Airside, International Departure Area. Hours: open 24 hours (Tue, Thu, Fri, and Sat) • 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Mon, Wed, and Sun). Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs.
- Wings Transit Lounge – Location: Landside, Level 4. Showers are available. Lounge Access: Pay at the Door
- A Lounge – Location: Airside, International Departures, Level 4. Showers are available. Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM. Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs.
Airline Lounges
If you are a First or Business Class traveller, you may have access to the lounges listed below. For more information, check the airline’s website.
Mabuhay Lounge International – Location: T2. Hours: 3:00 AM – 12:00 AM • Cathay Pacific Lounge – Location: T3. Hours: unknown • SilverKris Lounge – Location: T3. Hours: Unknown.
Related Lounges: Manila Airport Lounges
Drinking Water
A reader tells us that drinking water fountains are available in all terminals.
Food & Drinks
Food concessions throughout the terminals operate with varying schedules. These options are open 24 hours:
- Terminal 2: Denny’s (Arrivals Area 3-4) • Jollibee (Arrivals).
- Terminal 3: Mc Donald’s (Departure Area) • KFC (Food Hall, Level 4) • Denny’s (Mezzanine Area) • Wendy’s (Arrivals, Level 1) • Jollibee (Departures Area).
Luggage Storage & Lockers
Luggage and More offers left luggage storage at the following rates: Small luggage/items – ₱200 for the first three hours • Small luggage/items – ₱350 for a day • Small luggage/items – ₱1800 for a week • Small luggage/items – ₱6500 for a month. Location: T2, Departures Area. Hours: 3:00 AM – 9:00 PM. • T3, Departure Areas, near Gate 4. Hours: 2:00 AM – 10:00 PM. • T3, Arrivals Area, South Wing. Hours: 24 hours.
Mobile Charging
A reader has informed us that free mobile charging stations are scattered throughout Terminal 2. We do not have information about availability in the other terminals.
Showers
Freshen up before your flight. Showers are available in the Wings Transit Lounge (Terminal 3) and the following lounges: T1, Marhaba Lounge • T3, Pacific Club Lounge • T3, PAGSS Lounge • T3, Skyview Lounge • T3, A Lounge. [ see Airport Hotels above ].
WiFi/Internet
Free WiFi is available at Manila Airport. Free WiFi is available for three hours only. However, most people complain about the connection, stating it often doesn’t work, and it tends to be slow when it does work.
Security & Safety
Airport staff are generally tolerant of overnight sleepers. That said, we have received many reports of sketchy behaviour in the airport, including non-travellers hanging around landside areas, perhaps looking to make a buck, steal some luggage, or worse. CCTVs have broken or gone offline, missing serious crime incidents. In the past, there was an ongoing scam involving airport staff planting bullets in travellers’ luggage, so keep your bags close by at all times.
More recent traveller reports highlight friendlier staff experiences. However, sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It’s essential to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are a few tips:
- Safety First. It’s a good idea to know where the security office is and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask the security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
- Don’t Seclude Yourself. If you’re travelling alone, we recommend you stay near other travellers or close to security. This will help you feel more secure and deter potential thieves.
- Hide Your Valuables. It’s also important to hide your valuables. Please don’t leave them out in plain view, as this could make you a target for theft. Additionally, if you are a deep sleeper, you may want to padlock your bag to something or sleep with your bag up against a wall to make it harder for someone to access zippers and pockets. We have received reports of sleepers who woke up without their phones and laptop bags. The travellers were left with just their headphones and laptop bag strap.
- Stay Alert. It’s best to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safe night at the airport.
Pro-tip: If you sleep in the public zone, don’t be surprised if you receive an early morning wake-up call. Security is known to make the rounds, waking people up as travellers arrive for morning flights.
More Airport Information
Baggage Trolleys – Need a hand with your luggage? Baggage trolleys are available free of charge throughout the airport. NAIA Porters are also stationed in designated areas of the airport to assist with your bags if needed. Porter service is $1.00 per bag and must be paid at the porterage counter. Some reviewers have mentioned extortionist porter rates, so if you plan to use this service, have the money ready and do not show larger bills or expect change when you are presented with a large bill. Porters are not allowed inside the baggage claim area, and there is a “no tipping” policy.
Family Services
- Baby Care Facilities – At one point, nursing rooms offering cribs, playpens, bottle warmers, formula, diapers and more could be found at the following locations: T1, Departures area, opposite the Transit lounge • T2, airside, International/North Wing Gate 1 • T2, airside, Domestic/South Wing Gate 17 • T3, International pre-departure area, near Gate 108 • T3, Domestic pre-departure area, near Gate 119 • T4, pre-departures area. Additionally, diaper-changing tables are also available outside of all the restrooms.
- Children’s Area – Fun and colourful Kiddie Traveller’s Lounges have playhouses, slides, toys, books, and TVs with children’s programming. Kiddie lounges are staffed, so you can relax and have a little “me” time while your kids play (Children aged three years and under MUST be accompanied by a guardian at all times). Location: T1, airside, Transit Lounge In addition, two more Kiddie Traveller’s Lounges used to be located in T3, airside, one each at Domestic and International pre-departures areas and T4, airside, Pre-Departure Hall, near Gate 5.
Information Desk – At one point, information desks could be found in the following locations: Domestic and International Wings.
Medical
- Medical Services – Urgent and emergency medical care is available 24 hours a day at any of the medical clinics located throughout the airport. Locations:
- Terminal 1: Arrival level, next to the Customs Area Offices (Arrivals-level clinic).
- Terminal 2: Basement of the Rotunda, accessible via elevator.
- Terminal 3: Near Customs Area.
- Terminal 4: Pre-boarding Area.
- Pharmacy – Stores in the departure transit and pre-boarding areas sell non-prescription medicines.
Money
- ATMs / Cash Machines – Need cash? ATMs are available throughout all terminals. Fees may apply, so check your bank’s fee schedule and daily withdrawal limit if you are travelling internationally. You may also want to notify your bank of your travel plans. Note: there seem to be more ATMs Landside, so plan ahead.
- Currency Exchange – At one point, banks and money changers could be found throughout the Departures and Arrivals levels of all four terminals.
Post Office – At one point, several post offices could be found in the following locations: T1, Arrivals Lobby – West Wing • T2, Arrivals Lobby – South Wing, near the Passport Control Office. We could not confirm this at the time of our December 2023 update. If you know whether they are still there, click here to update this guide.
Prayer Areas – Looking for a quiet place for prayer or meditation in a spiritual setting?
» Christian chapels – At one point, Christian chapels used to be available in all terminals in the following locations: T1, 4th Level – West Wing • T2, Departure Level, North Wing – beside the Rotunda • T3, Mezzanine of the North Head House • No chapel in T4.
» Muslim prayer rooms – (Temporarily closed) – Locations: T3, Airside, Departures.» Our Lady of the Airways Parish Church – Scheduled masses are available daily. Location: 500m from T1.
Shopping – Duty-free shopping is available in T1 (Hours: 24 hours), T2 (Hours: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM) and T3 (Hours: unknown). There is also a 4-level shopping mall connecting Terminal 3 and the Parking Building.
SIM Cards – A reader tells us, “do not purchase at the airport. These are extremely over priced and not the best value. Once you leave the airport, purchase one at a convenience store.” (September 2022)
Smoking – Smoking areas are in T1, T2, and T3 pre-boarding areas. Passengers heading to T4 will only be able to smoke outside the terminal.
Car Rentals
The following car rental companies are available at Manila Airport: Alamo • Avis • Budget • Europcar • Hertz • Pacific Blue Transport. Locations: Terminal 1 • Terminal 2. An International Driver’s License or English-language Driver’s Licence is required, along with a photocopy of the license.
Hotel Shuttles
At the time of this update, we could not find any hotels offering an airport shuttle. See also Airport Hotels above.
Inter-Terminal Transportation
MNL airport runs a free 24-hour shuttle bus service that travels the airport complex, picking up and dropping off passengers at Terminals 1, 2 and 3. According to many reviewers, the service is unreliable, with long waits and journey times worsened by Manila traffic. Many travellers cite taking a taxi instead.
Public Transportation
Metro Rail: Passengers taking the Metro-Rail Transit line may disembark at the EDSA-Taft station. An airport shuttle terminal is located beside the MRT station.
Bus: Those travelling by city bus routes may take a bus plying the EDSA-MIA route. These buses pass Terminals 1 and 2. Additionally, you can take the airport shuttle between terminals.
Taxis
The airport is close to Manila’s main commercial business districts, so metered cabs, hotel drivers, and chauffeur services are available at the terminals. Take only official, metered or pre-booked taxis. Do not accept rides from people who approach you in the terminal. The trip will take about 20-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Drivers here are notorious for overcharging passengers with rigged meters, called a Batingting. There has been a crackdown on cabbies using these devices in recent years, but you should be forewarned. For the least amount of hassle, it is recommended that you pre-book a taxi with a reliable operator recommended by your hotel or friends/family.
Last updated: 2024-08-26
This guide is for informational purposes only to assist with your planning. All information, including rates and hours, is subject to change at any time without notice. The information in this airport guide is based on information collected and/or received from the airports, lounges, hotels, transportation providers, and their websites. We are not representatives of any of the above-mentioned service providers. To report errors or to add/update any items mentioned in the guide: update the airport guide or write a review.