intramuros food tour

12 Best INTRAMUROS Tourist Spots (Walled City of Manila)

Manila. There’s no other place in the country as historic and vibrant as this one. The capital city of the Philippines has been through a lot of things during its rich history. Many Filipinos lived and died to protect the freedom of our country and they are the reason why we get to enjoy every bit of beautiful things Manila has to offer.

For many years, Manila has been considered one of the world’s premier destinations given its wide array of attractions, diversity of culture, and richness of history. From a plethora of entertainment hubs to world-class hotels, gigantic malls, museums, and parks, there’s still an important piece of the city’s history that tourists from all over the world love to visit. And that is the famous “Walled City” of Intramuros.

For almost 500 years, Intramuros served as one of Manila’s most important locations. During the Spanish Era, the Walled City became the government’s center of operations, it is where the significant government offices were located and some of them are still standing to this date.

Fast forward to the future, Intramuros is still one of Manila City’s renowned landmarks. I have been to Intramuros many times. When I was still working as a Sales Representative during my stint in a Shipping company, I regularly visited Intramuros as many of my client’s offices are located here.

For many wonderful reasons, Intramuros still and will always be a perfect combination of nostalgia and modernism. So, join me in this article as we discover the 12 best tourist spots in Intramuros!

1. Manila Cathedral

First on the list and certainly one of the most important is no other than the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception also known as the Manila Cathedral.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons 

Just like the beautiful city of Manila, Manila Cathedral has also experienced countless wars and catastrophes throughout its entire existence. The church was initially built in 1571, when it was still made of ordinary materials like nipa and bamboo. Moreover, the cathedral also hosted numerous historical events such as the famous Papal Visits of Pope John Paul II in 1981 and Pope Francis in 2015.

Aside from its rich history, the Manila Cathedral is also hailed as one of the country’s top tourist destinations because of its majestic architecture. Designed by the great Architect Fernando H. Ocampo, the breathtaking Neo-Romanesque style of the building easily captures the hearts of tourists. Making the cathedral the perfect spot to appreciate our country’s history and architectural masterpiece. No wonder why Manila Cathedral is also one of the country’s premier wedding venues. So, don’t forget to take pictures during your visit! CHECK THE BEST HOTELS IN INTRAMUROS HERE

2. Fort Santiago

Next up on the list is another significant part of our country’s history, Fort Santiago. It is a citadel built by the Spanish government in 1593. The fortress was designed to protect the then-newly established city of Manila. Many lives were lost and imprisoned in this very fortress and one of those people is the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal .

Credit: Intramuros Administration FB 

Fort Santiago is one of the best places to escape from the hustle and bustle of Manila City. The nostalgic vibe of the fortress together with its beautifully landscaped grounds along the banks of Pasig River makes a perfect relaxing destination for everyone.

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best MANILA TOURS in 2023 (Food Tours, Nature & More)

3. Explore Sites with a Bamboo Bike

Intramuros is full of countless historical sites as well as dozens of nostalgic restaurants and cafes offering exceptionally delicious menus. So, it seems unlikely that you’ll be able to fully enjoy everything the Walled City has to offer while riding a car. But don’t worry! You can always opt to tour around Intramuros while riding the famous Bamboo Bikes!

Credit: Klook – BamBike Experience

Bambike Ecotours recently introduced a new and wonderful way to explore Intramuros. For as low as P200 per hour, you can already go on a guided tour around the significant landmarks of the Walled City and you can also choose from several designs of their bikes. Amazing, isn’t it? Make sure to check out the official website of Bambike Ecotours for more information!

4. San Agustin Church

Another important part of our country’s history and religion is the Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Senora de la Consolacion y Correa or widely known as San Agustin Church. To this date, this San Agustin Church is considered to be the country’s oldest stone church, being completed in 1607.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The church’s Medieval style in architecture easily captures the hearts of many as it perfectly depicts the classic way of life our ancestors lived. The style and grandeur of the structure itself are already a sight to see for many, but wait until you see the interior! San Agustin Church was built to display the greatness of the Spanish Era that’s why countless elegant features were installed such as chandeliers from Paris, the 18th-century pipe organ, the antechoir, and many more!

San Agustin Church is definitely a must-visit destination in the city and it will always be for many years to come.

5. Baluarte de San Diego

Yet another beautiful historical landmark located in Intramuros is the famous Baluarte de San Diego. It is a bastion, which is a sturdy and strategic structure to repel invasion. The structure is incorporated with several curtain walls so that soldiers will have a clearer view of incoming invaders, giving them much time to counterattack.

Just like all of the surrounding landmarks in Intramuros, many lives were lost and protected in the very location of Baluarte de San Diego. So before you explore its magnificent beauty, don’t forget to pay respects to all the brave souls that once walked around it. CHECK THE BEST HOTELS IN INTRAMUROS HERE

6. Casa Manila

Next on the list is probably one of the most aesthetically pleasing locations you can ever witness in Intramuros. Casa Manila is a popular museum within the Walled City depicting the classy colonial lifestyle of Filipinos during the golden era of the Spanish government.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons  

Casa Manila Museum is actually a reproduction of a 19th-century grand mansion that is fully decorated and furnished to perfectly depict what it was like to live as a highly-respected Filipino in the 19th century. As I’ve said, the museum contains a countless collection of several significant pieces of history including antique furniture from China and Europe. Tourists can also witness what typical affluent Filipinos’ houses would look like.

Make the most of this time to take countless Instagrammable photos as much as you can! I’m sure every corner of Casa Manila Museum has a nostalgic vibe to it. So don’t miss the chance to check it out!

7. Museo de Intramuros

Another hidden gem you can find in Intramuros and certainly, one of the new ones is Museo de Intramuros. It is a legacy project created and managed by the Intramuros Administration. The museum contains an extensive collection of religious images and relics which played crucial roles in the evangelization of Filipinos throughout the Spanish colonial era.

Credit: Esquire PH

Museo de Intramuros is built on top of the location of San Ignacio Church Ruins. The majestic design of the museum is based on the original vision of the famous Filipino architect Felix Roxas. As I’ve mentioned, the museum houses an extensive collection of religious items over the almost 500 years Christianity has taken over the country. Spread throughout three (3) stories, you can find religious sculptures, colonial paintings, and historical representations of Intramuros.

Despite its already massive display of collections, officials have said that the Museo de Intramuros only shows 30% of its entire collection. There are still a lot more to come so make sure to support and appreciate our history and culture even more!

8. Silahis Center

It is always a delight for us Filipinos to appreciate art and culture. And one of the best places in our country to do that is no other than Intramuros. The Walled City has been a haven for everyone who wanted to witness massive collections of historical artworks and masterpieces.

Credit: Primer 

Silahis Center is the main showroom of Silahis Arts and Artifacts whose main goal is to protect and promote the beautiful heritage of Philippine culture. Countless wonderful Filipino products and handcrafts were manufactured, sold, and retailed by Silahis throughout the years. Enabling them to not only promote the appreciation of our local handicrafts but also create jobs as the Silahis Center also features beautiful indigenous designs from the provinces.

The Silahis Center is divided into four (4) departments where you can witness an extensive display of traditional and cultural artifacts that are also being sold. So aside from being mesmerized by them, you can also opt to buy them as souvenirs! The 4 departments are the Silahis Arts and Artifacts, Chang Rong Antique Gallery, Tradewind Books, and Galleria de Las Alas.

To know more about their interesting collections and displays, just visit the official website of Silahis Arts and Artifacts!

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best 5-Star Hotels in Manila (For Luxury Travelers)

9. Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant

Ah, finally! No trip is ever complete without food, am I right? Well, for our next destination, let me introduce you to the famous Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant. Aside from bringing you the best-tasting gastronomic traditional Filipino-Spanish dishes, the restaurant is also known for elevating your dining experience through beautiful cultural music and dance performances!

Barbara’s is located inside the Casa Manila Museum so guests can also explore the beautiful artifacts displayed around. There’s also a separate Attic Museum and Gallery in the restaurant so it’s safe to say that you’ll both be entertained and have your cravings satisfied at the same time!

This hidden gem of a restaurant offers a delicious buffet of Filipino and Spanish foods so I suggest that you make the most out of your experience and taste them all! Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant also serves as a bed and breakfast so for those who want to enjoy a little bit more of Intramuros, you can always book a reservation at the official website of Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant.

10. Light and Sound Museum

Oh, so you thought we’re done exploring the rich and beautiful history of Filipinos? Well, not quite yet because another hidden gem of spectacular displays of culture and history is the Light and Sound Museum.

Credit: Reynelandrozie 

One of the museum’s signature shows is the one retracing the footsteps of our very own national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, towards his heroic demise. In the Light and Sound Museum, visitors are guaranteed to experience a recreation history with the masterful touch of light and sound. Feel free to be mesmerized with tons of artwork, visuals, and sounds for as low as P150 per hour! Not bad, right?

11. Bahay Tsinoy

Of course, Intramuros isn’t all about the contributions of the Spanish Colonial Era in our country. It has been standing for almost 500 years now so it’s safe to say that it came across other countries too like the Europeans, other Asian countries, and most importantly, China. China has been a massive influence on our country whether we talk about culture, economy, and history.

Credit: MoleInTheFoot 

Bahay Tsinoy has long been a museum in Manila that houses several collections of the different contributions of the Chinese in our history, culture, tradition, and economy. It houses the recognized Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Center which is responsible for collecting such important artifacts of our culture.

You can always come and appreciate these beautiful pieces of history in Intramuros so go ahead and check them out!

READ MORE : 15 Best Hostels in Manila

12. Aduana Ruins

Lastly, we have the beautiful Ruins of the Aduana Building. This Spanish colonial structure is also known as the Aduana de Manila or Intendencia. For centuries, this establishment housed several important government offices that played a huge role in our ancestors’ lives.

Credit: Ae goes around 

To this day, the Aduana Ruins has become a popular tourist destination for its exceptionally beautiful design following a Neo-Classical touch of architecture. The appearance of the structure itself is already an attraction, but if you incorporate its historical significance, visiting the Aduana Ruins can always have a deeper meaning for some.

Intramuros has and always will be a massive part of our lives as Filipinos. It’s sort of a time capsule that enables us to go back to the past and have a look at how beautiful yet challenging life was back then. All of these while still being able to enjoy the present and appreciate the improvements taking place in our country.

Most of all, Intramuros serves as an ultimate reminder to everyone that the freedom we enjoy in the present came with a massive price. We should do our very best to appreciate it, protect it, and love it.

Intramuros Travel Guide 2024

How to get to intramuros.

Getting to Intramuros, the historic walled city in Manila, is easy with different transportation options. Here’s how you can get there:

By LRT 1 (Light Rail Transit)

• Fastest : Take the LRT 1 train and get off at Central Station. Then, just walk towards the entrance of Intramuros on Victoria Street, across from Manila City Hall. Intramuros is close to landmarks like the National Museum of the Philippines, Rizal Park, and the Manila Hotel.
• From Cubao : Take the LRT 2 at Cubao Araneta Station towards Recto Station. Get off at Recto Station and walk to Doroteo Jose Station LRT 1. Take the train bound for Baclaran and get off at Central Terminal. Walk towards Manila City Hall and use the underpass in front of the building to reach Intramuros.
• From SM City North EDSA : Ride a Jeepney or bus towards Balintawak and get off at Roosevelt LRT 1 Station. Take the LRT 1 train bound for Baclaran and get off at Central Station. Walk towards Manila City Hall, cross Taft Avenue using the underpass, and reach Padre Burgos Avenue, which leads to Intramuros.

By Jeepney 

• From Monumento, Caloocan: Take the LRT 1 at Monumento Station and get off at Central Station. Walk towards Liwasang Bonifacio or Manila City Hall, cross Taft Avenue using the underpass, and follow Padre Burgos Avenue to reach the east side entrance of Intramuros.
• Take a Jeepney with a sign for Baclaran or Gil Puyat. Let the driver know you’re going to Intramuros. Usually, they’ll drop you off at the center island of the Manila City Hall underpass. From there, take the underpass to cross Taft Avenue and reach Padre Burgos Avenue. Follow C. Victoria Street to the east side entrance of Intramuros.

Of course, for faster travel time, you can always take a taxi, Grab, Joyride , Move It , Angkas or any ride-hailing app going straight to Intramuros.

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10 Iconic Intramuros Restaurants To Get Your Fill of Food and Culture

Abby is a content producer who has a passion for food. She's a sweet tooth who complains when something is too sweet. When she's not writing for Booky, she likes to do calligraphy/typography, to cry to children's movies/series, and to surprise people that "Abby" did not come from Abigail.

Get dishes rich in culture and flavor!

An iconic landmark in Manila, the walled city of Intramuros holds within it, our culture and history preserved and accessible to the masses . It’s a place for the curious, the adventurous, and the history-loving Filipinos who want to immerse themselves in a “snapshot” of a pivotal time in our history that shaped our culture.

Don’t know how to make the most of your trip to Intramuros worth it? Some things you can do in Intramuros are :

• going on bike eco-tours
• visiting museums
• saying a prayer or two in their churches like the San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral
• playing gold
• taking a photo walk that begins at Fort Santiago
• having a taste, literally, of the different dishes inspired by our past

And whether you’re a foodie or a hungry human looking to replenish your energy between activities, we’re sure that there’s a restaurant that’ll tickle your fancy. Some of them even offer pick-up and delivery services for those who are still a bit wary to go outside.

Don’t know which ones you may like? Check out 10 iconic restaurants in Intramuros that you definitely have to try !

Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant – Plaza San Luis Complex

Be transported back in time with Filipino and Spanish cuisine at no other place than Barbara’s cuisine. If you decide to dine in, you’ll witness a cultural dance performance and enjoy eating in their Spanish-era-inspired interiors with a charming old-school ambiance .

Notable dishes they offer: Calamares Fritos, Gambas al Ajillo, Arroz A La Cubana, Sinigang Baby Sugpo

View menu View their website View their Facebook page View their Instagram account Plaza San Luis Complex, Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila (02) 8527 4083

Ilustrado – Calle Real Del Palacio

Operating since 1989, Ilustrado is a fine dining Filipino-Spanish that’s open to the public for dine-in, pick-up, and delivery, specializing in world-class Filipino dishes, Spanish dishes, as well as dishes inspired by global cuisines. Dine in and you’ll fall in love with their traditional-meets-modern interiors, delectable dishes, and humble entertainment.

Recommended dishes: Paella Ilustrado (Meat & Seafood), Adobong Bagnet with Taba ng Talangka, Sampaguita Ice Cream, and Baked Eggplant in Filo

View menu View their Facebook page View their Instagram account 744 Calle Real Del Palacio, Intramuros, Manila (02) 8527-3674 | +63 939 9206822

Patio de Conchita – Beaterio St.

If you’re looking for delicious and affordable home-cooked Filipino eats, then Patio de Conchinita is your best bet! It’s a ‘ sosyal na carinderia ‘ type of restaurant that serves up homey Filipino food in Old Spanish interiors that feel both extra cozy and picturesque.

Recommended dishes : Kalderetang Baka, Seaweed Salad, Sinigang na Itlog ng Isda sa Miso, and Buko Juice.

View menu View their Facebook page 680 Beaterio St., Intramuros, Manila (0977) 288 0904

Ristorante delle Mitre – Real St.

Ristorante delle Mitre is a Filipino restaurant owned by the CBCP or the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines. The interiors are simple yet homey and the walls are decorated with pictures and relics of saints and angels. Come in for a quiet and hearty Pinoy meal!

Notable dishes they offer: Crispy Pata, Sinigang, Halo-Halo

View menu View their Facebook page Opposite San Agustin Church, Real St, Intramuros, Manila

La Cathedral Cafe – Beaterio

If you want to grab good coffee and pastries in between your Intamuros adventure, we suggest you take a break at La Cathedral Cafe and marvel at the view of the breathtaking Manila Cathedral church . The ambiance is homey and the food is hearty, making it the perfect place to unwind.

Notable dishes they offer : Their selection of coffee and cakes

View menu View their Facebook page View their Instagram account Beaterio St 1002 Manila 0915 512 3317

Batala Bar – General Luna

The Batala Bar is a cozy, homey hub found inside the Philippine Artisan Trade Gallery where you can admire locally handmade products. Apart from beer on tap , they offer a selection of sandwiches, rice bowls, and pasta that fit the modern palate . And of course, for dessert, they have premium ice cream and sundaes!

Notable dishes they offer : Bomba Longga Panini, Bataladobo rice bowl, Malunggay Pesto Spanish Sardines, Crazy Carabao Beer

View menu View their Instagram account General Luna 1002 Intramuros 0918 908 2262

Cioccolata Churros Cafe – G/F The Bayleaf Hotel

Located inside The Bayleaf Hotel, Cioccolata Churros Cafe specializes in everyone’s favorite Spanish pastry–the deep-fried churros –served with the sweet deep of your choice: Coffee Caramel or Spanish tsokolate. Aside from those, they also offer a variety of sandwiches, sweet treats, as well as hot and cold drinks.

Notable dishes they offer: Banana Hazelnut Croissant, Grilled Ensaymada, and Dusted Churros

View menu View their website View their Facebook page View their Instagram account G/F The Bayleaf, Muralla cor Victoria St., Intramuros, Manila

Raffaele Woodfired Pizza – 3/F The Bayleaf Hotel

A 60-seater chic restaurant that changes ambiance depending on your dining time, Raffaele Woodfired Pizza is a restaurant that specializes in pizza with the crust prepared exactly how you like it–crusty or traditional–as well as weekly specials you definitely have to try.

Notable dishes you have to try : Foie Gras and Mushroom Pizza, Salmon and Uni Tartare, Parmesan Risotto, and Roasted Suckling Pig

View menu View their website View their Facebook page View their Instagram account The Bayleaf, Muralla cor Victoria St., Intramuros, Manila +632 5318 5000 | 0917 879 5073.

9 Spoons – 9/F The Bayleaf Hotel

Located on the 9th floor of The Bayleaf Hotel and known as the “Penthouse All-Day Dining Restaurant”, 9 Spoons is a modern, casual dining penthouse that serves up stunning views and International dishes . Whether you’re there to admire the Manila skyline and the Intramuros Golf Course or to have a meeting or a private gathering , 9 Spoons has a la carte dishes perfect to fill you up.

Notable dishes they offer: House Pancakes, All-Day Tapa with Egg

View menu View their website View their Facebook page 9/F The Bayleaf Hotel, Muralla cor. Victoria St., Intramuros, Manila (02) 5318-5000

Sky Deck – Rooftop The Bayleaf Hotel

Sky Deck is a rooftop bar located within the walls of Intramuros. It has an unobstructed, 360-degree view of the entire city including the world-famous Manila sunset . Cap off your night with a breathtaking view as well as a number of bar chows, tapas, and alcoholic drinks ranging from wines to beers, and even cocktails.

Notable dishes and drinks they offer: Mexican Fries, Spicy Gyoza, Chimichangas, Carnitas, and Vietnamese Wings

View menu View their website View their Facebook page Rooftop, The Bayleaf, Muralla cor Victoria St., Intramuros, Manila +632 5138 5000 | 09178795073

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The Ultimate Guide to Restaurants in Intramuros, Philippines

Introduction.

Intramuros , located in the heart of Manila , Philippines , is more than just a walled city; it is a symbol of the country’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Steeped in Spanish colonial history, Intramuros boasts cobblestone streets, well-preserved architecture, and fascinating landmarks that transport visitors back in time. As one explores this enchanting enclave, they will find themselves immersed in a world where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present.

Brief overview of Intramuros as a historical and cultural landmark

Originally built by the Spanish colonizers in 1571, Intramuros served as the political, religious, and economic center during their rule over the Philippines . Enclosed within massive stone walls that stretch for 4.5 kilometers, this fortified city offers an intriguing glimpse into Manila’s colonial past. Within these walls lie centuries-old structures such as Fort Santiago – a once formidable defense fortress turned national shrine – and San Agustin Church – a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 16th century.

As visitors navigate through Intramuros’ narrow streets lined with bougainvillea-adorned walls and ancient trees that whisper stories from generations past, they cannot help but be mesmerized by its architectural marvels. From elegant ancestral homes like Casa Manila to grand cathedrals such as Manila Cathedral (or La Cathedral Cafe) — each building tells a tale of resilience and beauty.

Teaser on the gastronomic delights that await visitors in Intramuros

Beyond its historical significance lies another captivating aspect of Intramuros : its burgeoning food scene. Nestled within these historic walls are an array of restaurants that offer culinary delights to tantalize any palate.

One such gem is Patio de Conchita – an intimate courtyard restaurant that specializes in Filipino comfort food with modern twists. Here, visitors can indulge in dishes like binagoongan crispy pata and kare-kare while enjoying the cozy ambiance created by lush greenery and nostalgic decor.

For those seeking a panoramic view of Manila’s skyline alongside their meal, Sky Deck View Bar offers both delectable cuisine and breathtaking vistas. Savor a sumptuous array of international dishes in this rooftop restaurant whilst being mesmerized by the twinkling city lights below.

Cafe Ilang-Ilang , located within the historic Manila Hotel, is an ideal choice for those looking to embark on an epicurean journey. With its grand buffet spread featuring cuisines from around the world, it promises a truly unforgettable dining experience.

To truly immerse oneself in Intramuros’ colonial charm while indulging in traditional Filipino fare, 9 Spoons at The Bayleaf Intramuros is a must-visit. Situated atop a restored heritage hotel, guests can savor classic Filipino dishes such as sinigang na bagnet and lechon belly while enjoying sweeping views of the cityscape.

Intramuros indeed offers an enchanting fusion of history and gastronomy that is sure to captivate all who venture within its walls. Whether one chooses to dine at Belfry Café with its rustic charm or experience traditional Filipino cuisine at Ristorante Delle Mitre – known for its clerical lineage menu – Intramuros’ restaurants promise to take visitors on an unforgettable culinary journey through time.

The Best Intramuros Restaurants for Unforgettable Dining

Barbara’s heritage restaurant – immerse yourself in filipino culture through food and live performances.

If you’re looking for not only exceptional food but also an immersive cultural experience, Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant is an enchanting destination. Located within Intramuros’ historic core, this restaurant exudes old-world charm while celebrating Philippine heritage through its extensive menu and live performances.

Their menu boasts an array of regional specialties that will tantalize your taste buds. Dive into kare-kare , a beloved Filipino dish featuring oxtail and tripe stewed in rich peanut sauce, paired with bagoong (shrimp paste) on the side.

For a tangy delight, try their sinigang , a sour soup with your choice of meat or seafood cooked in tamarind broth along with an assortment of vegetables. Crispy pata is another showstopper – deep-fried pork knuckles with irresistibly crunchy skin and tender meat inside.

As you savor these delectable dishes, be prepared to be entertained by live performances that showcase Philippine folklore through traditional dances. The rhythmic movements and vibrant costumes will transport you to a world of cultural richness while you enjoy your meal.

Ilustrado – Indulge in Elegant Fine Dining with a Modern Twist on Filipino Cuisine

When it comes to elegant fine dining within the walls of Intramuros , Ilustrado stands out as an exquisite destination. This restaurant offers refined dishes that embrace Filipino cuisine with a contemporary twist, elevating traditional flavors to new heights. Their innovative menu features tantalizing creations that marry classic Filipino ingredients and modern culinary techniques.

One must-try dish is their tinapa rolls with kesong puti mousse – smoked fish wrapped in delicate rice paper accompanied by creamy white cheese mousse made from local carabao’s milk. The combination of smoky flavors and creamy textures will leave your taste buds craving for more.

For those seeking a delightful main course experience, Ilustrado’s mango-glazed pork belly is sure to impress. This succulent piece of pork is glazed with a sweet yet tangy mango sauce that perfectly complements the richness of the meat.

Each bite will take you on a journey through layers of flavors. To complete your dining experience at Ilustrado, explore their curated wine list.

Each dish has been carefully paired with a selection of wines that enhance the flavors and elevate the overall dining experience. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide you through the perfect pairing, ensuring a truly memorable meal.

A Culinary Pilgrimage to Ristorante Delle Mitre

Nestled within the historic walls of Intramuros , Ristorante Delle Mitre offers a unique dining experience that combines sublime flavors with ecclesiastical aesthetics. This hidden gem is located within the compound of the Manila Cathedral, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil ambiance while enjoying delectable dishes.

Indulge in their sumptuous selection of Filipino and international cuisine, with standout dishes like binakol (chicken soup cooked in coconut water) and callos (stewed ox tripe). The restaurant’s charming interior, adorned with religious artifacts and stained glass windows, adds to its enchanting atmosphere.

9 Spoons: A Rooftop Culinary Oasis

For panoramic views of Intramuros’ stunning skyline combined with exceptional dining, 9 Spoons is a must-visit. Perched atop The Bayleaf Hotel, this rooftop restaurant offers an unmatched culinary experience.

Enjoy a fusion of Filipino and international flavors as you relish dishes like Vigan longganisa pasta and lechon kawali sisig. With its cozy yet modern ambiance accentuated by warm lighting and contemporary décor, 9 Spoons provides an elevated setting for unforgettable dining moments.

Cafe Ilang-Ilang: A Feast for the Senses

Located in the historic Manila Hotel just outside the walls of Intramuros lies Cafe Ilang-Ilang -a true haven for food enthusiasts seeking a luxurious buffet experience. From fresh seafood delicacies to succulent prime cuts of meat prepared by skilled chefs right before your eyes at live cooking stations, this gastronomic paradise leaves no taste bud unsatisfied.

Revel in the elegant interior adorned with chandeliers and plush seating, while being serenaded by live music as you savor a wide range of international and local cuisines. Make sure to leave room for their delectable dessert spread, featuring classics like leche flan and halo-halo.

Patio de Conchita: A Charming Garden Hideaway

Escape the bustling streets of Intramuros and step into the serene oasis of Patio de Conchita . Tucked away in a quaint courtyard, this hidden gem offers an intimate dining experience amidst cozy seating.

Feast on traditional Filipino fare like kare-kareng bagnet (crispy pork belly in peanut sauce) and chicken binakol while immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance. The restaurant’s rustic charm and attentive service elevate the overall experience, making it a beloved spot for food enthusiasts seeking an escape from the ordinary.

La Cathedral Cafe: A Blend of Culture and Cuisine

Discover La Cathedral Cafe —a charming establishment nestled within the grounds of San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This café seamlessly combines the beauty of Intramuros’ historical architecture with delectable treats for both the palate and eyes. Savor their selection of specialty coffee brewed from locally sourced beans, paired with indulgent desserts like bibingka cheesecake or suman latik tiramisu.

The café’s picturesque setting inside a Spanish-era garden patio adds to its allure, providing visitors with a momentary respite amidst their exploration of Intramuros’ cultural wonders.

Intramuros is not only a magnificent historical treasure trove but also an exceptional culinary destination that caters to all palates. From hidden gems like Ristorante Delle Mitre offering exquisite dishes within ecclesiastical surroundings to rooftop delight 9 Spoons serving up breathtaking views alongside flavorful cuisine, each restaurant in Intramuros showcases the rich gastronomic heritage of the Philippines . Whether you opt for the elegant ambience of Ilustrado, the buffet indulgence at Cafe Ilang-Ilang, or the tranquil garden setting of Patio de Conchita, every dining experience is elevated by its unique charm.

As you revel in delightful flavors and immerse yourself in fascinating narratives, Intramuros becomes an even more enchanting place to explore. Embark on this journey through historic walls and tantalizing dishes, leaving with a satisfied heart and a deeper appreciation for both history and culinary arts.

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When is the best time to visit? During the dry season from October to Mid-June. It is also possible to explore the city during rainy season but do not forget to bring your umbrella. How long does it take? For the whole day it takes around 6 to 7 hours. This is the minimum time you should spend to visit the main attractions. Now if you prefer a half-day we can also arrange it and we suggest scheduling it on the morning. For those who are in a rush we also have the express options, two hours only where you will have a glimpse of one of the districts of the capital of the Philippines. Do we have to walk? Yes definitely. Especially in Intramuros. It is a pleasant (and the best) way to discover this part of the town. If we take the package with transfer where is the pick up? At your place or hotel, anywhere in Metro Manila. Is it safe? Yes, like most cities in South East Asia, you will enjoy a better level of safety compared to North American or Europeans capitals. Is the itinerary fixed? It is fully customizable depending on what you want to see and how much time you have. Why should I take a guided tour, why not visit the city by myself? Well our capital is one of these towns that do not showcase easily its beauty. If you are not very familiar with the town you will probably end up getting lost, missing most of the interesting places or visiting its monuments without understanding why they have been built.

Manila Binondo & Intramuros Full-Day Tour with Guide & Transfers

Description

See some of the top tourist spots in the capital of the Philippines with this tour of Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, and Intramuros, the walled city in Manila.  This shared tour is perfect for those who want to learn more about Filipino-Chinese culture and check out both Binondo and Intramuros tourist spots. It is inclusive of a DOT-accredited tour guide, entrance fees, coordinator and photographer assistance, a disposable raincoat (if it rains), and premium van transfers with pick-up and drop-off.

You will be picked up from your hotel in Metro Manila or Cavite in the morning. Your tour guide will brief you on the itinerary for the day, which will include tourist spots in both Binondo and Intramuros . 

You will start with a visit to Quiapo Church , one of the most famous churches in the metro. Afterward, you will visit Bahay Nakpil, an ancestral home found in the district of Quiapo, Manila. You will then visit Binondo Church, which was originally built for Chinese converts.

Next, you will have lunch at Cafe Mezzanine at your own expense. It is an upscale Binondo restaurant serving oriental dishes such as xiao long bao and chop suey. You will also visit Eng Bee Tin, a Chinese deli shop famous for its hopia, tikoy, and mooncake products.

You will then go on a rolling tour of the House of General Luna , the birthplace of revolutionary Philippine hero Antonio Luna. Afterward, you will go to Intramuros and visit its top tourist sites like Casa Manila, San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, and Fort Santiago.

Spanish colonial-style architecture is replicated in Casa Manila. It contains antique furniture and decor with Philippine, Chinese, and European roots. San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral, on the other hand, are both historical churches in Intramuros . Lastly, Fort Santiago is one of the oldest fortifications in Manila.

After the tour, your assigned driver will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodations in Metro Manila or Cavite.   

Learn more about Manila’s history and culture in this Binondo and Intramuros tour. Check the availability by choosing a date.

Attractions

What to bring

Good to know.

This is a private tour. Meals expenses are not included, and it will be on your own account.

Children Friendly: Yes!

Pet Friendly: Yes!

Senior Citizen/PWD Friendly: Yes!

Pick-up time is 8:00AM within NCR and Cavite. To change the pick-up time and location please request in advance so our operator may check if the itinerary will fit as we may need to move the pick-up time if the location is far and additional fee may apply.

The operator may cancel the tour in case of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions. In this case, you will be given the option to reschedule or request a full refund. Note that being late by 15-30 minutes without any advice is considered a no-show. Schedule cancellation requests must be made 48 hours before your original subject to approval.

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11 Best Where to Eat in Intramuros [Update 2024]

If you are looking for the best restaurants in Intramuros, the historic Walled City of Manila, then you have come to the right place!

Intramuros is home to some of the most unique and unique cuisine in the city, and this is the ideal place to come if you want to sample the culinary delights of the Philippines.

From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From small hole-in-the-wall eateries to trendy upscale establishments, Intramuros has it all.

If you’re a fan of traditional Filipino cuisine, then you’ve come to the right place. Intramuros is known for its many karenderias, or “carinderia” in Filipino, which are small restaurants serving affordable meals like pansit and kaldereta.

Don’t forget to try the popular halo-halo, a type of dessert made of different kinds of sweets, like banana, yam, and sweetened beans.

The best places to get these traditional dishes are the local karenderias in the area.

If you’re looking for something a bit more modern, then Intramuros has plenty of great restaurants to choose from.

There are a number of unique and upscale restaurants, like El Chorro and Cucina, which serve everything from Spanish and Italian food to Filipino fusion dishes.

These restaurants are perfect for an intimate dinner or a special celebration.

No matter what type of cuisine you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste in Intramuros.

From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this historic Walled City of Manila.

If you’re looking for where to eat in Intramuros, then look no further. There’s something for everyone in this amazing city.

So, come explore the unique restaurants in the oldest city in the Philippines and experience the best of Intramuros!

9 SPOONS - The Bayleaf Intramuros

Real Customer Reviews at 9 SPOONS - The Bayleaf Intramuros :

Ilustrado Restaurant

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Ristorante delle Mitre

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Bambu Intramuros Art Bar and Restaurant

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Patio de Conchita

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Plaza San Luis Complex

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Sky Deck View Bar

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Raffaele Woodfired Pizza, The Bayleaf Hotel

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National Press Club Restaurant

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11 Best Where to Eat in Maginhawa [Update 2024]

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Time to Explore the Old Manila – INTRAMUROS DIY Tour

Intramuros: Where To Go And What To Do In Old Manila

We have been working in Manila ever since we graduated from college. Even so, we never really got the chance to explore what is known to be the home to the city’s historical landmarks built during the Spanish era. Guilty as charged, we didn’t find time to do so… not UNTIL NOW!

Intramuros is the Latin word that means “inside the walls” thus, calling it the “ Walled City ” located in the city of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. This was built in the late 16th century to protect the city from foreign invasions. This is a great place to revisit Manila’s rich history and see centuries-old establishments.

If you are looking for an Intramuros day trip itinerary, we got you covered. I’ll be sharing with you how we explored this place and how much we spent.

Intramuros Itinerary

How to go to intramuros.

Take the LRT-1 going to Central Terminal Station. From here you have 3 Options:

• Walk five minutes to Manila City Hall. From here, a pedestrian underpass takes you across Padre de Burgos Street. Immediately upon exiting the underpass, you’ll see Victoria Street, which curves right through the walls. ( Pros : cheaper way – Cons : can really be hot during day time and it will take you 10-15 minutes)
• Hail a Taxi – Outside the station, you can take a taxi. It should not cost you more than Php 200. Before going inside a taxi make sure you make it clear to the driver that you want the metered price otherwise there’s a possibility they will overcharge you especially if you are a foreigner.
• Take a Grab – Download the GRAB APP then book your ride to Intramuros. We tried booking a grab from Central Terminal Station going to San Agustin Church in Intramuros and the price is Php 178.
• Pedicabs – This is the option we took. They are bicycles with side compartments or motorized rickshaws. Similar to Thailand’s Tuk-tuk. Each trip costs about 50 Philippine pesos. (negotiable).

How to tour around Intramuros?

Information on the internet can be overwhelming. Before going, we really don’t know where to start. We didn’t have a final itinerary when we got there. I asked the pedicab driver to drop us off at San Agustin Church because I thought that was the best way to start. Here are the available options by the way.

• Ride from one historical monument to another on the Electric Chariot with your knowledgeable tour guide. The Budget Tour (30 minutes) costs Php 300 and the Grand Intramuros Tour (1 hour) costs Php 900.

2. Hop on a bamboo bike – Bambike . A guided tour costs Php 999. You can also rent a bike on-site for Php 200 per hour. They are located in Casa Manila just in front of San Agustin Church.

3. Calesa  is a great way to experience touring in a horse-drawn carriage. Calesa accommodates 1 to 3 passengers on a 30-minute guided tour of Intramuros. The cost is Php 1,000. If you will take this option, you need to go to Manila Cathedral first. That is where you can find rental Calesa.

4 Pedicabs  offers guided tours as well. It costs Php 350 for 30 minutes tour, for locals it’s Php 150 per 30 minutes. They have this laminated white paper where they have pictures of the historical places they will tour you. If you will take this option you can find them outside Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, or Fort Santiago.

12:30PM – San Agustin Church

We explore Intramuros’ DIY style. When we got out of Central LRT station, the original plan was to walk going to Intramuros but it was 12 noon that time. The sun is up and it’s so humid that’s why we tried to check how much will it cost us to book a grab – and it costs Php 178. We tried to look for a taxi but there were others who were in line waiting. Finally, we decided to take a pedicab. At first, they were charging us more than the price if we took a grab so we declined. They are very persistent and a little scary honestly. But when we said we would just take a grab one of them lowered it to Php 50.

San Agustin Church is the oldest stone church in the country. This church survived wars and natural calamities before it was hailed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has a museum inside with its precious collection of Spanish artifacts, statues, church ornaments, and paintings. They are open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

01:00 PM – Casa Manila

Just in front of San Agustin Church is the Casa Manila or “ Manila House ”. It is a living museum that features the lifestyle of an affluent Filipino family during the late Spanish colonial period.

The first thing we noticed is the Bambike rental headquarters outside Casa Manila.

On the other side of it is Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant.

As we walked inside, we saw souvenir shops, a cafe, and another restaurant. There is a passage on the left side that leads us to this fountain. The entrance fee to Casa Manila Museum is PHP 75 . They are open from Tuesday to Sunday only. Operating Hours are from 09:00 am – 06:00 pm.

01:30 PM – Baluarte de San Diego

From Casa Manila, we took a pedicab going to Baluarte de San Diego. The fare is Php 50 each. Then, we paid the entrance fee which costs Php 75 each.

The Baluarte de San Diego also known as Nuestra Señora de Guia (Our Guidance Lady) is one of the oldest forts inside Intramuros. This spade-shaped bulwark which used to be a circular watch tower was built in the late 16th century primarily to defend against the invasion of this area.

Today, the fort has become a popular tourist spot. They built a garden around the fort that features shaded walkways, fountains, old cannons, and structures from the preceding century. 

02:00 PM – Fort Santiago

We took another pedicab outside Baluarte de San Diego going to Fort Santiago. The fare is Php 50 each. Then, we paid the entrance fee which costs Php 75 each.

I honestly thought Fort Santiago and Intramuros were the same. But they are not. Fort Santiago is the oldest Spanish bastion in the Philippines situated inside the walled city of Intramuros . It became the headquarters for the armies of several foreign powers in Philippine history, including the Spanish, the British, the Americans, and the Japanese. This is also where Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines National Hero was detained here for 56 days. Then made his final walk from Fort Santiago to Bagumbayan.

It is interesting to see how it used to be and how much they were able to preserve up to this day.

There’s so much history in this place. There are also dungeons here – the Fort Santiago dungeons where the US Army discovered 600 decomposing corpses inside. During World War II, the Japanese used dungeons as a prison and torture chambers for high-value prisoners. During the Battle of Manila, in their haste to destroy Intramuros, the Japanese sealed off the dungeon, leaving the hundreds trapped inside to suffocate.

We crawled into this narrow passageway. This tiny entrance leads us into the inner chambers of Fort Santiago Dungeon. I remember asking the guard if there was someone inside already because I don’t want to go there with just me and my sister. What a relief to see a group of students inside.

Right beside the entrance to the dungeon, we noticed a white cross marking the mass grave of the 600 victims pulled out from the dungeon.

There are also a lot of areas to chill and have a picnic. There are shops inside and a cafe but my favorite is the area in front of the river.

03:00 PM – Manila Cathedral

From Fort Santiago, we walked for 3 minutes going to Manila Cathedral. In front of it is Plaza Roma.

03:15 PM – Late lunch/Snack at La Cathedral Cafe

Finally, to finish our Intramuros day trip we dine at La Cathedral Cafe. It’s time to reward ourselves after a long walk. We ordered Kare-Karea, Korean Barbeque, Carbonara, and two frappes.

This restaurant is known for its proximity to Manila Cathedral giving its customers a nice view while they dine in. Their foods are a bit pricey. If you are on a budget, just order a frappe it costs less than Php 200.

Intramuros Day Tour Expenses:

So there you have it! It’s time to plan your Intramuros trip soon!

WHAT TO BRING IN INTRAMUROS?

Prepare for your trip with our must-have travel essentials.

You may also check our MANILA, PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDE: Everything You Need to Know . Also, I would really appreciate it if you subscribe to our YouTube channel below:

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The Intramuros Walking Tour – A Quick Exploration of Manila’s Historic Walled City

If you are in Manila, Philippines and looking for a cool day trip, then Intramuros – the historic walled city of Manila – is a cool family and friends destination that you can try. Its Intramuros Walking Tour is a definite must-try!

I have been to Intramuros, years ago. I remember it was a time when I was a member of what we called ‘ Tribung Bagong Silang’, a local group of young people who participated during festival competitions. (Yep, you read it right. I have danced for the Pintados- Kasadyaan festival in Tacloban City. It’s synonymous to the famed Sinulog Festival in Cebu and Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo ).

We were invited as guests during one of the Department of Tourism’s Wow Philippines which aimed to entice tourists to visit the Philippines. We have danced through the streets (or maybe just a portion of it. LOL) and performed a 3-minute dance showdown at one of the open fields in the Walled City.

Fast forward a decade or more later, I returned to Intramuros with some of my good friends in college for a day trip, or rather, for a quick walking tour.

The Intramuros walking tour only lasted for a few hours . We had our own personal guide (one of our good friends) who took us to the spots that we needed to see.

We did not have the luxury of time to check out all the spots, however. The walking tour was just one of side trips to our Ilocos Tour .

Our plane arrived in Manila at around 9 AM. After a quick breakfast and meet-up with some of our friends who are based in and around the city, we headed out to Intramuros for our walking tour.

Despite the limited time, we were able to visit some points of interest in Intramuros. As all of our trips together , the afternoon spent with them is fun and can make me feel young! I guess that’s the effect old friends have on you. They make you feel years younger! 😉

We still had hours of free time before we checked in to our accommodation for the night. It was spent doing the Intramuros Walking Tour and our Binondo Food Crawl later in the afternoon.

Before I proceed, let me clarify that Intramuros occupies around 0.67 square kilometers of land . There are several museums and historic buildings inside it including some of Manila’s universities.

It will take you an entire day to visit them all should you wish to. Of course, it will depend on your pace too.

Here’s a quick rundown of the places we saw (in order) and the delicious late lunch we had !

Our ride dropped us off at the entrance of Fort Santiago where we paid an entrance fee of 75 Php . This particular area has several places that you can visit which I will enumerate below.

After payment, you will be greeted with an open field including some souvenir shops and snacks center.

Table of Contents

Fort Santiago

Plaza de armas, memorial cross, media naranja, baluarte de santa barbara, rajah sulayman theater, manila cathedral, plazuela de sta. isabel, casa manila museum, san agustin church and the san agustin museum, philippine president’s gallery, baluarte de san diego gardens.

Fort Santiago is a defense fortress originally built in 1571 . Like most defense structures the entrance of Fort Santiago is imposing.

It reminds me vaguely of Fort San Pedro in Cebu (one of the places we visited during our Cebu DIY Tour ).

The fort has undergone major changes over the years before finally turned over to the Intramuros Administration in the year 1992.

Passing through the entrance of Fort Santiago, you will notice this public square at the centre of the military barracks and storehouses.

Plaza de Armas is a open green area where a lone statue of the Philippines’ National Hero: Jose Rizal is erected at the centr e.

It was a bit gloomy when we visited Intramuros, so despite the open spaces, the air had a cool feeling to it and was not hot.

After a quick appreciation of the area, we moved forward and came upon the Memorial Cross.

The Memorial Cross is a structure erected in memory of the 600 Filipinos and Americans who died in a dungeon .

All of the bodies had signs of starvation and suffocation. They were found during the last days of February 1945.

The dungeon where the bodies were found had inner doors of massive iron bars and outer doors of iron plate on wood.

Ironically, just nearby the cross is an underground structure called the dungeons.

There was no mention whatsoever if this was the same dungeon where the 600 Filipinos and Americans were found. As per the signage on the entrance, these Dungeons used to be the storage vaults and powder magazine of the Baluarte de Santa Barbara .

Because of certain conditions wherein the structure was no longer fit to store the items, it was then converted into prison cells and storerooms.

We did not went down to the entrance as it was a bit eerie. Just recently, though the dungeons has been restored and is now open to the public.

You can now visit it from 2 PM to 10 PM everyday with the entrance fee already included in the Fort Santiago entrance fee.

Near the Dungeon is the Baluarte De Santa Barbara and the Media Naranja. Before proceeding to explore the aforementioned places, we noticed a man wearing the old Guardia Civil uniform.

He is in fact a member of the Security Guards of Intramuros. And of course, we could not resist taking a picture with him!

The Media Naranja (or half orange) is a semi-circular platform that forms part of the fort’s river defences . From this area, you can see the Pasig River and some of Manila’s skyline.

Taking the stairs, we were given a much better view of the city’s skyline and of the fort’s defences.

Baluarte De Santa Barbara was built in 1592 to protect the entrance to the Pasig River . From where we stood at the top, we can see the dungeons from below.

It is said that the area served as vaults at one time, then as a quarter of the artillerymen; the house of the commandant before it was finally turned as a dungeon for prisoners.

Walking at the ramparts of the fort, we found ourselves back at the Plaza de Armas.

We chose not to enter the Rizal Shrine Museum as our schedule was a bit packed. We proceeded however to the Rajah Sulayman Theater.

Along the way, we noticed some footprints on the concrete floor: Rizal’s Last Walk To Martyrdom which traces his walk from his cell to his execution site in Bagumbayan .

Rajah Sulayman Theater, otherwise called as Dulaang Raha Sulayman, is an eighteenth-century building converted into the venue of seasonal performances by the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) . Formerly, the area was a Spanish military barracks.

After Fort Santiago we headed to the next destination of our Intramuros Walking Tour: The Manila Cathedral.

At the time of writing, a tour will cost you around 600 Php. Another transportation option in the Walled City (that is aside from the private cars) is what we locally call as ‘Pedicab/ Padyak’.

It’s a pedal-operated tricycle and way smaller than the regular tricycle. Cost is around 300 Php. Please note however, that prices may vary. Might as well check before hiring one! 😉

Fronting the Cathedral is another public park called Plaza Roma. This park is considered to be the centre of Intramuros and is in close proximity to three (3) important landmarks: Manila Cathedral to the south, the Palacio del Gobernador to the west, and the Casas Consistoriales, also known as the Ayuntamiento de Manila, to the east .

Manila Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Basilica dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary as Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, the Principal Patroness of the Philippines .

After saying a little prayer inside the church, we proceeded to our next destination of the Intramuros Walking Tour: the Casa Manila Museum. Along the way, we came upon another memorial.

The Plazuela de Sta. Isabel is a small park where a memorial was built in dedication to the non-combatant victims of the Battle For Manila in 1945 .

They are the mode of transportation if you wish to join the Bambike Ecotours around Intramuros. Definitely a unique alternative for an Intramuros Walking Tour.

Just beside the Bambikes, is the museum that we were looking for: the Casa Manila Museum.

The museum showcases the social history of Manila during the Spanish Colonial Era . We did not get a chance to explore the museum however (again the limited time.. 🙁 ) But we were able to appreciate it’s gorgeous structure.

Just across Casa Manila Museum is one of the Philippines’ World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is a National Historical Landmark in the country: the San Agustin Church.

Sadly, we were not able to enter as there was a ceremony inside (it looked like a wedding), thus we contented ourselves admiring its structure from the outside.

Just beside the San Agustin Church is the San Agustin Museum . As of writing, the entrance fee was around 200 Php.

We were pretty hungry at this point (note that the time was about 2 PM in the afternoon and we haven’t had lunch yet. LOL). So we again skipped the museum and headed to the nearest restaurant in the area.

Fortunately, Ristorante delle Mitre was just across the church and we were immediately ushered in.

We each had selected a few delicious food from the menu and settled in. Here’s a few photos of our delicious lunch!

Once we were full and watered, we then proceeded to our 2nd to the last stop for our Intramuros Walking Tour. The catch though was that we weren’t walking at that time. LOL.

We had the car picked us up and took us to San Diego Gardens. Before heading there, we did a brief stop to the Philippine President’s Gallery.

The Philippine President’s Gallery is small park where sculptures of the faces of former Presidents of the Republic are on display.

To be honest, there’s not much to see here. Just something that might interest people who love history (although we did not find any inscriptions).

After the gallery, we were taken to Baluarte De San Diego Gardens. This particular area holds two (2) places that we were visiting: the garden and the fort.

Baluarte de San Diego Gardens serves as the entrance to the fort . You’ll have to pay an admission fee to get inside. Ours was 75 Php each.

We saw old canons displayed within the area plus a vintage-looking fountain greeting you from the entrance.

The garden is quite popular for couples as it can be reserved as a wedding venue as well.

Like Fort Santiago, Baluarte De San Diego has also seen several re-constructions and restorations.

After roaming around the gardens, we finally left Intramuros feeling happy and accomplished!

Despite the limited time, I must say we covered some interesting places and fascinating history . It’s always great to look back and know some significant part of Philippine history.

Here’s a really quick video of the sights we saw. If you liked it, don’t forget to hit that ‘Subscribed’ Button on our YouTube Channel!

Have you been to Intramuros? What did you liked most? Tell us in the comments below! Like This Post? Pin It!

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52 Comments

Great post! What a beautiful spot – a must do in Manila!

Thank you, Chantelle! 🙂

Oh I am such a sucker for beautiful architecture! <3 The Cathedral is so pretty! I am adding this tour to my bucket list :))

Good to hear that! 🙂

Such clarity of writing, such a beautiful post. I loved every detail you have provided. The heritage and history of the place is evident in the post. Much love.

Aww.. Thank you, Madhurima! You made my day! 😀 Hope you get to visit Intramuros! 🙂

Interesting read! 🙂

Thank you, Zoe! 🙂

The Philippines would be a dream come true to visit. I really enjoy hikes so a walking tour sounds like the perfect way to explore but also learn so much, what a great idea!

It is.. 🙂 Hope you do get to visit, Lauren.. 🙂

Awesome article! It’s great to see historic sites like this!

Thank you, Lucile! 🙂

What a great day out! I’ve never seen this side of Manila actually, I’m hoping to visit the Philippines soon so will definitely look at stopping over here on my way to the beaches!

You should visit.. Nothing beats a good dose of history before enjoying the beach! 🙂

The Philippines are on my list someday! Sounds like a fantastic visit.

You should really visit. There’s so much to see! 🙂

This is so interesting! I didn’t know such a thing existed! Would love to see it for myself one day!

I love walled cities! I have visited a few in Europe. The architecture in Intramuros looks really impressive and the museum sounds interesting. Adding it to my Philippines list.

I love historic walled cities but never would have expected to find one in Manila! What a great round up of the many things to do there, this will be a must-do when I visit the Philippines.

Ooh very interesting! I love cool architecture like this. Good to know it’s near Manila!

This looks like a great site to explore! I saved it in case I make it to Manila soon! Thanks!!

I never knew Manila had this much interesting things to see! I’ve only visited quickly for business before so sounds like I should actually try to visit again with more time!

How lovely that you first got to visit through your dancing club! I love the idea of doing a walking tour within Manila’s Intramuros old town area, I think having a local guide friend or booking a private tour guide is a big help to make sure you see the highlights in the time you have available. For me, it’s the small cobbled streets of old buildings that appeal the most, and the Baluarte de San Diego Gardens. And being able to try local specialities food-wise too!

This looks incredible. And you’ve led me to not start reading about the Spanish Colonial rule of The Philippines which admittedly I knew nothing about. I’m a fond traveller of Latin America and reading all the Spanish named locations within your post didn’t spark a little ignorance from me so just having a quick read up on the history of The Philippines. Thanks for sharing.

I love a good walking tour. I find it the perfect way to get acquainted with a city…especially cities that are basically outdoor museums. This tour looked so complete and interesting!

A walking tour with a personal guide is always a great idea, even if you weren’t able to see all the spots! I think it’s always awesome to explore with the locals because they know a lot about a destination!

I only ever spent 15-hours in Manila – I’ll have to go back and check these places out!

Intramuros is such a unique place. The Baluarte De San Diego in particular would be really cool to see. Great post.

Thank you, Yvette! 🙂

The Philippines is on my bucket list for sure. I can’t wait to stroll around the historic walled city in Manila and also to try Bambikes! I love any alternative ways to explore a new destination and it looks like so much fun!

This sounds like a good tour. At least my kind of tour with all that fort, the dungeons and the stories behind. I hope they take it slow for I would be stopping every now and then to examine things closer

I’m sure you would, Ami! I’d agree on you about taking the tour slow. It’s more immersive that way.. 🙂 You can actually do it yourself as there are maps that you can ask for and have it on your pace. 🙂

I love taking such short tours around the places we stay in because the closest ones to us are the ones we tend to skip for later – eventually never making it to that place. I would love to explore a place like this. The Baluarte De San Diego is definitely unique and also the display of former presidents!

This is a really lovely post! I love looking at the old churches there, especially Manila Cathedral as it’s so Gothic looking. I can definitely see the Spanish influence here. Looks like you had a great time!

Been looking for a reason to stop over in Manila, guess you just gave me one!

You are bringing me back to one of my favourite trips. We also did a tour of the Intramuros when we were in Manila. It was not what we expected to experience while there and was a great way to appreciate the Philippines before we headed off to the islands.

I loved Intramuros. It is such a lovely contrast to the rest of Manila. Like a whole tiny city within a city.

Love Intramuros. Wish I was there right now.

Nostalgia, That’s what I felt while I was reading this. It was 9 years ago when I finally did this tour…to show Bill, my American husband, our heritage. Thanks.

I have a special affection for walled cities and I love to explore them on all my travels. Quebec City is my favourite but I’m definitely adding this to my list

Intramuros looks really fascinating. A walk that takes you into the historic past of Manila must indeed be a great experience. This is definitely a different perspective of the Philippines, different from the beautiful beaches and islands.

Aren’t walking tours fabulous? I love them! I always learn some new things about the city, and usually from a local guide with a unique perspective. You hit up so many places on your tour. It looks perfect!

I love walking tours. You guys sure did see a lot of places in one day! The President’s Gallery was kinda of neat…I like how the portraits were displays how it looked like stone replicas of wall portraits…neat!

This is the first time I am hearing about Intramuros and this walking tour seems exceptional, Marvi. Thanks for the inspiring pictures and post and for motivating me to add this place to my bucket list!

Great to hear that Agness! 🙂 You’re welcome!

Great photos! I would love to visit the Philippines so I need to have a look at flights. Interesting post!

Thank you, David! 🙂

Intramuros is among the places that we want to visit in Manila. We plan to do a city tour sometime—-Intramuros, National Museum, Rizal Park, Edsa shrine, etc.

The only thing that is stopping us from doing so is the horrendous Manila traffic.

I couldn’t blame you.. 🙂 Traffic can be really bad.. Good thing we had such an efficient guide with us, we mostly avoided traffic!

Hi, did you do the intramuros walking tour on your own or did you hire a tour guide?

Hi Gretchen! Thank you for dropping by! Our friend served as our guide as she is based in Manila.. 🙂 You may check them out on their FB page as they are establishing their tour agency too. 🙂 https://www.facebook.com/LUDIFY.Trips/ .

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Our Itinerary and Travel Guide to Intramuros and Binondo in Manila, Philippines

Travelling to Intramuros is a great way to appreciate the rich history of the Philippines . Intramuros was built 300 years ago by Spaniards when the Philippines was still a colony of Spain. It is the original Manila enclosed within the walls. While my friends and I are Filipinos, we’re glad that we hired a personal tour guide as it made our trip more convenient and informative. Otherwise, our trip will be merely sightseeing.

We started our trip at Fort Santiago . Entrance fee is Php 75.00 per head . Fort Santiago is the defense fortress of Intramuros and was used as a storage for gun powders and jail for prisoners. Jose Rizal, the Philippines national hero, was imprisoned here before he was executed. Normally, Fort Santiago can be explored less than 1 hour but it took us approximately 2 hours to explore it because our tour guide gave us lots of interesting stories. I felt like going back in the past. Lol!

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Inside the Fort Santiago is also Rizal Shrine , a museum displaying different memorabilia related to Jose Rizal.

After Fort Santiago, we went to Plaza de Roma and Manila Cathedral. During the Spanish times, the plaza was considered as the center of the city where public events are held. Now, a statue of King Charles IV of Spain can be seen in the middle of the plaza in honor of him sending the first smallpox vaccine to the Philippines.

The Manila Cathedral is the premier church and the first cathedral of the Philippines. It was rebuilt multiple times after suffering from different natural disasters and being a victim of war. Note that you need to take off your hats before going inside the church as a sign of respect.

After Manila Cathedral, we went to San Agustin Church . It is the only church in Intramuros which survived World War II. Interestingly, at the entrance of the church are Foo dogs or Chinese guardian lions. According to our tour guide, the church was built by Chinese laborers which are the reason why certain features of the church show Chinese influences.

Part of the San Agustin Church is the San Agustin Museum where different artistic works of historical and cultural significance can be seen. Entrance fee is Php 200.00 per head . The museum is perfect for those who enjoys arts and/or other historical artifacts but can be boring for those looking for more active experiences.

My friend, Kisse, who loves going to churches had a good time here. We have to wait for her most of the times because she stays too long in one place before moving to the next room. Lol! Note that the museum closes during lunchtime at 12 PM – 1 PM.

And to complete our trip, we also visited Casa Manila just across San Agustin Church. Entrance fee is Php 75.00 per head . Casa Manila is a museum depicting the lifestyle of the rich Filipino families in the past.

Although exhausted from the hot weather, we enjoyed traveling to Intramuros. To maximize our day, we also did a Binondo Food Trip after our Intramuros Tour. We had our lunch at Binondo, the World’s Oldest Chinatown, just across Intramuros.

If you’re planning to visit Intramuros, here is a copy of our itinerary for your reference:

8:30 AM – Meetup at Fort Santiago / Start of Intramuros Tour 10:30 AM – Plaza Roma 10:40 AM – Manila Cathedral 11:00 AM – San Agustin Church & Museum 12:00 AM – Casa Manila 12:30 PM – End of Intramuros Tour / To Binondo

After our Intramuros Tour, my friend and I decided to have a Binondo Food Trip as Binondo is just across Intramuros. Binondo is the World’s Oldest Chinatown. It was granted by the Spanish government, when the Philippines was still a colony of Spain, as a permanent settlement to the Chinese immigrants who converted to Catholicism.

We’re all hungry by this time (it was around 1PM already) so we had our lunch first at Quik Snack . Located along the narrow street of Carvajal, Quik Snack is a bit difficult to find. Luckily, we have a tour guide to navigate for us. The humble restaurant serves affordable home-cooked Chinese meals with huge servings.

For appetizer, we had their Fresh Lumpia and Lumpia Quitos . Lumpia Quitos is almost similar in taste to Fresh Lumpia but it’s serve on a bite size crusty wrapper and is more juicy.

My favorite orders at Quick Snack are Amah’s Kiampong and the Indonesian Tauhu . The kiampong tastes authentic and the tofu is flavorful. They’re almost a perfect match. By the way, Amah is a Chinese term for grandmother on the father side.

On the other hand, my friends really enjoyed the spicy Sate Beef Noodles . But beware of its serving size as its really huge. One order of it can be good for like around 5 persons.

After eating lunch, we walked our way to Binondo Church to digest all the food we ate. Lol! The pagoda-like belfry of the Binondo church is an evidence of the Chinese influences to the Catholic church.

After visiting Binondo Church, we resumed our food trip and went to Dong Bei Dumplings . Dong Bei Dumplings served northern-style Chinese handmade dumplings. We were lucky to witness how the Kuchay Dumplings are made in action.

We also passed by to an altar where you can see how the different religions merged at Binondo. The altar is presented with a cross in the middle but you can use incense sticks to pray.

Our walk lead us to Po Chuan Tin Bakery , a traditional bakery which serves traditional hopia.

We also tried Shanghai Fried Siopao and it’s really good. The bottom part of its siopao is fried hence the name.

The long walk and the hot weather has made us thirsty. Fortunately, just on time, we reached the Sugarcane Vendor where we had a cold and sweet Sugarcane Juice . The juice is made from real sugarcane.

Since it’s almost time for an afternoon snack break, we ended our trip at Wai Ying Fastfood where we had some dim sums. Dim sum is a Chinese term for a snack.

While we have a list of target shops/restaurants to try at Binondo, we didn’t really have a fixed itinerary for our food trip as we just went along the flow with our tour guide.

Here’s a picture of our tour guide, Ms. Chit. Aside from being a Department of Tourism accredited tour guide, I learned that she is also a college professor. You can contact her through these numbers 09195854187/09228577027.

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13 thoughts on “ Our Itinerary and Travel Guide to Intramuros and Binondo in Manila, Philippines ”

Thanks for the guide! These places serve a lot of cultural value for us Filipinos so it’s nice to go around and visit them every once in a while.

I have two visitors from the USA and would like to avail of the Intramuros and Binondo tours on 4 March 2020. In view of this, may I get your package and payment arrangements, please.

Thank you and hope to receive your response soonest. Chona

Nice one! May I know how did you guys went around the intramuros? I mean, is the tour guide include transport? Thank you.

This itinerary sounds perfect for my kids, 20 & 17, who will be traveling to Manila on their own later this year. How do I get in touch with this tour guide & how much did you pay for the tour you did with her? Eager to hear from you! Anna

Great itinerary. Very interested. My friends and I want to go on this tour. There are four of us, maybe more, around January 14, 2020. Can you give me how much this tour costs, with a good guide, of course! Thanks!

Hi there, do they provide tour guide upon registering in Fort Bonifacio? Or is there a tour guide readily available? We have a teammate from Costa Rica and have business trip here. After her 5-day training, she want’s to have a city our in Intramuros tomorrow. We are not prepared for this, hope there is readily available guide.

Interesting! Can you give us details of your guide for both tours and approximate costs?

Thankyou very much,

Jan McKeogh

Hi. Thank you for this very helpful write up! May I know the contact number of your tour guide? I plan to bring some friends to a tour of Intramuros next month. Thank you.

Hi! May we know how much was the tour guide fee, plus Ms. Chit’s contact number? Thanks!

how do i contact the owner of this blog? I tried the contact us link, but it doesn’t work

you can contact at [email protected]

Hi Regine! Helpful article. May I seek your help in booking a personal tour guide via SunnyTrip.ph?

Good article

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Local heritage tourism is back in full swing with these Manila walking tours

• These walking tours let you see—and sometimes taste—Manila’s incredible history and culture. All while getting some exercise in

Walkable cities are still a thing of the future, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Manila on foot. Manila is one of the oldest cities in the country, which means there are several sites and landmarks that deserve our attention. 

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Founded by Spanish invaders in 1591, Manila has seen some of the most brutal and beautiful events in our nation’s history. While most tourists favor more tropical destinations, Manila still offers some of the richest experiences when it comes to our cultural heritage and history. 

If you ever want to play tourist for a day and discover the historical side of the capital, here are some walking tour companies that offer experiences worth your while. 

WanderManila

Wander Manila is a walking company that specializes in private and customized tours in the historical Intramuros district. They currently have three curated tours: ¡Hola Intramuros!, One Night in Intramuros, and the Chinoy Heritage Tour. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by WanderManila (@wander.manila)

The Hola Intramuros tour takes you around the Intramuros area during the daytime. The One Night in Intramuros tour is during the evening and shows you the darker side of the area’s history. The Chinoy Heritage Tour takes place across the Binondo, San Nicolas, and Escolta areas—which are some of the places that have a high concentration of Chinese immigrants. 

These tours come with your very own tour guide and costs P1,000 per head with a minimum of 3 guests per tour. 

WanderManila also has custom tours available where you can pick your destinations. These custom tours start at P1,500 per head with a minimum of three guests per tour. The final cost can be higher depending on the inclusions. 

You can book your tours through the WanderManila Facebook page

Walking Tour – Lakbay Lakaran sa Quiapo

Lakbay Lakaran sa Quiapo takes you on a firsthand adventure through what is considered to be “old downtown Manila.” The tour incorporates a sightseeing journey, a pilgrimage, and a fiesta all into one experience. Having started some time in the late ’80s, Lakbay Lakaran sa Quiapo is also thought to be one of the oldest walking tours. 

Each tour takes you across the Quiapo district and its historical landmarks, like the San Sebastian Church and Bahay Nakpil-Bautista. 

The tour costs P700 per person, with a minimum of three people in each group. It starts at 1:30 p.m. and runs for 3 to 4 hours, depending on the group’s pace. 

You can book your tours through the Walking Tour – Lakbay Lakaran sa Quiapo Facebook page

Old Manila Walks 

Old Manila Walks is one of the biggest walking tour companies that operate in the city. It offers five different tours: Intramuros (P1,500+), Binondo (P1,750+), San Miguel and Malacañang Palace (P1,750), Chinese Cemetery (P1,300), and a halo-halo tour combo you can customize (P2,850). 

The rates go up by P150 to P300 on weekends, except for the San Miguel and Malacañang tour, which is only available on weekdays. The Binondo tour is also a food tour with a tasting menu, which is already covered by the initial payment. The Intramuros tour can also be extended or done at night, which costs P1,800. 

The mix-and-match tour allows you to combine two walking tours in one. The combos available are Intramuros with either the Chinese Cemetery, Malacañang, or Rizal Park. 

There are scheduled tours you can book through the website , but if you don’t see the tour or dates you want, you can schedule it through their booking form . 

Bambike Eco Tours

This tour is especially crafted for bike enthusiasts who also want to get a little history and culture in, along with some exercise. Though not strictly a “walking” tour, the Bambike Eco Tour still allows you to explore Manila with your own two feet—albeit on a bike. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bike Tours in Intramuros (@bambikeecotours)

Bambikes offers three types of guided tours around Intramuros: the Intramuros Experience (P1,699 per person), the Intramuros Express Tour (P999 per person), and the Intramuros Sunset Tour (P1,799 per person). 

The Intramuros Experience takes you through eight different sites in two and a half hours, while the express version takes you to six different sites in an hour and a half. The sunset tour is a two-hour tour that happens in the late afternoon and ends with a complimentary drink at The Bayleaf Intramuros—just in time to see the gorgeous Manila Bay sunset. 

All the tours come with your very own choice of Bambike, a serving of local ice cream (a.k.a. dirty ice cream), and a cool towel to freshen you up after your journey. 

For people who want to take the tour but don’t know how to ride a bike, don’t worry. Bambikes also offers bikes with sidecars and a trained operator for P600 for a regular bike and sidecar, or P1,000 for a bamboo bike and sidecar. Both options are big enough to fit two people. 

You can book your tours through the Bambike website

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Intramuros After Dark: A Night Walking Tour of Old Manila

There was a time when Intramuros was Manila. Manila then wasn’t the large metropolitan area what we know now but a walled city, covering a total of 64 hectares, and home to thousands of Spanish colonists and their Filipino servants. It served as the country’s capital and the seat of Spanish religious, political, and military power.

This lasted for 400 years — until the city was mostly destroyed by the Japanese military during the WW2.

Later in the 1980s, the Philippine government made a major restoration effort in Intramuros, rebuilding its historic buildings. Today, it is one of the most visited attractions in Manila . You can explore Intramuros on your own, but if you want a unique experience, you can join the tour Intramuros After Dark .

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Intramuros After Dark is a 4-hour walking tour inside the Walled City, conducted by Butch Pedalino (also known as Julian ang Makabayan, or simply Kuya Butch). A great storyteller who loves history, Kuya Butch has been doing this Intramuros tour since 2017. Notably, he was also a friend of the late Carlos Celdran.

Kuya Butch’s tour isn’t just a talk about historical facts — there are also interesting tidbits and urban legends included. Here’s my experience joining the Intramuros After Dark.

Our Intramuros tour at night

How to book your tour, travel tips, what to read next:.

I was invited on this tour by other bloggers and content creators. As stated above, this tour normally lasts 4 hours but we had a condensed itinerary that lasts 2-2.5 hours only.

Prior to the tour, we met up at the Destilaria Limtuaco Museum . This is the oldest distillery in the country, which produces various alcoholic drinks including shoktong — an old medicinal wine. We filled up with local snacks and desserts first, including siomai, sisig nachos, and local gelato flavors from Karabella Dairy which are infused by alcohol flavor from this very distillery.

Kuya Butch then introduced himself to us. He handed us small packets of salt for protection, with instructions on how to use it after the tour and to visit another area first before heading home (also called “pagpag”). Intramuros is notorious for its ghost stories.

We started the tour at Puerta del Parian (“puerta” meaning gate), which served as the main gateway to Intramuros. Beside it there used to be a moat, although now it is completely dry. We then walked around and saw the Manila Clock Tower, the largest clock tower in the country and a center of controversy when a condominium building was built near it, hence “photobombing” the iconic view.

From there we walked outside to the streets in Intramuros. Kuya Butch said that today this area suffers from illegal squatter settlements — an ongoing issue that persists due to political reasons.

We arrived at the Plaza San Luis Complex, which is home to the newly opened Café Intramuros. I love the architecture of this plaza — it is reminiscent of the old buildings in Vigan City . I haven’t really thought about photography when I joined this tour, and I somehow regretted not bringing an actual camera. Alas, I wasn’t able to take a picture with me because there were too many passing vehicles.

We then entered Casa Manila located inside the complex. Casa Manila features the lifestyle of an affluent Filipino family during the late Spanish colonial period, with its signature courtyard and a fountain in the center, which was designed to cool the rooms facing it.

Afterwards, we crossed the street to see the San Agustin Church. Interestingly, this church is the only building in Intramuros that survived the heavy bombing during the Battle of Manila during the WW2 period. Currently, it is one of the four baroque churches in the Philippines to be declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It’s also a popular church for weddings, with a long walkway that is said to offer good luck.

Another interesting fact is that the saint carvings on its doors look Asian and there are fu dogs on the front of the building. Fu dogs are mythical animals in China that protect the inhabitants of the spaces they are guarding.

These — along with the piedra china (Chinese granite) on the sidewalks outside of the plaza — are just some of the influences left by the Chinese merchants in Intramuros (the original chinatown) before they resettled in Binondo.

Our next stop was Memorare Manila. This monument was constructed in honor of over 100,000 civilians who died during the Battle of Manila, many of which were victims of heinous crimes by the Japanese imperial forces and casualties of friendly fire from the American soldiers.

Did you know that Manila was one of the most ravaged capitals in the world during WW2? The other ones were Berlin in Germany and Warsaw in Poland.

Here we took a moment of silence as we lit candles for the souls of those who passed away.

We ended the tour at Manila Cathedral. Manila Cathedral is known as “The Mother of All Churches.” It has a unique facade with three access ways and bronze carvings of Mama Mary and other famous saints. Kuya Butch said that there is superstition that it’s unlucky to get married here because there is a partition between the main doors. It’s said that if you want your marriage to last, say your vows in San Agustin Church instead.

Overall, the Intramuros tour at night was tiring because we had to do a lot of walking, but it was also enjoyable. I enjoyed not just the historical facts, but urban legends as well. Belief in the soul and afterlife is an integral part of the Filipino identity. I now understand why Intramuros at night is a popular tour during halloween.

Admittedly, a lot of times I was distracted because I wanted to take pictures of the old streets and buildings. I didn’t realize how lovely Intramuros would be at night. I think this tour will benefit not just history lovers, but photographers as well.

You can book this Manila tour through Intramuros After Dark’s official page . There are open joiner tours on weekends (Saturday and Sunday). You can also request for a private tour on your date of choice, with a minimum of 10 participants.

• Rate : As of 2023, the current rate for this tour is P1300 per person.
• Schedule : Intramuros After Dark starts from 5PM to 9PM. Call time is typically at 4:45PM at The Plaza Roma Fountain.
• Who can book the tour : This tour is ideal for those interested in history, corporate team-buildings, and foreign visitors looking for Manila tours. It’s also a great opportunity for photographers to capture the beautiful lights of Intramuros at night.

Here is the itinerary/list of places to visit:

• Stories from Plaza Roma and The Fort Santiago
• Intramuros: The Walled City of Old Manila
• The Manila Cathedral and Plaza Roma
• The Memorare Manila
• The San Agustin Church
• The Plaza San Luis Complex and the Piedra China
• The Dancing Fountain at the Manila City Hall Grounds
• The Hidden Garden and the Liwasang Bonifacio
• The Old Original Chinatown of Manila
• Stories from The Jones Bridge and the Old Calle Escolta

Here are important travel tips before you go!

• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear. You’ll be walking a lot!
• Bring a reusable bottle of water and a fan if you have any. It is hot and humid especially during the summer months, even at night.
• Eat before your tour so you have energy. There are various restaurants inside the walled city. You can also head to Binondo for a food trip , which is just close by.

Disclaimer : This tour was offered for free c/o Intramuros After Dark, Destilaria Limtuaco Museum, and Karabella Dairy. As always, thoughts and opinions are my own.

Are you interested in going on an Intramuros tour at night? If you have questions or comments, let us know in the comments section below.

If you’re interested in historical tours, read these as well:

• WW2 Historical Tour: Bataan Death March

Staying in Manila? Don’t forget to read these guides!

• Insider Guide: Best Things to Do in Manila
• Best Hotels in Manila
• Best Staycations in Manila with Pool
• Best Things to do in BGC Taguig
• Best Restaurants and Cafes in BGC
• Binondo Food Crawl
• Poblacion Food Crawl

Venture outside of the city for fun and adventure:

• Best Beaches Near Manila
• Affordable Beaches Near Manila
• Best Waterfalls Near Manila
• Best Farm Staycations Near Manila
• Best Day Trips from Manila

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

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Intramuros Experience + Food + Music or Cultural Show

• All Fees and Taxes
• Music by a local trio band (Morning), or a live cultural performance (Sunset)
• Bring your reusable bottle with you to reduce single-use plastic. All guests can have free water refills at Bambike.
• Food: Eat-all-you-can buffet at a heritage restaurant
• Entry/Admission - Fort Santiago
• Real Street, Real St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines Bambike Ecotours Intramuros, Manila
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• We provide alternative modes of transportation for those who can't bike. Please inform us after you have made your booking if you require this assistance.
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 5 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at Real Street Real St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines Bambike Ecotours Intramuros, Manila See address & details
• 1 Fort Santiago Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Manila Cathedral Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 3 Plaza San Luis Complex Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 4 Japanese Cannon Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 5 Puerta Real Gardens Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 6 Puerta del Parian Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 7 The Bayleaf Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 8 Aduana Building Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 9 Plaza Roma Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 10 San Agustin Church Stop: 5 minutes See details
• You'll end at Real Street Real St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines Bambike Ecotours Intramuros, Manila See address & details

• lisateakle 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun and enjoyable cycling tour of Intramuros Great way to see the highlights of the Intramuros district of Manila. Our guide Jonathan kept us both well informed and entertained with his historical knowledge, local perspective and jokes. The tour was well organized and the cycling was an enjoyable way to move around on a hot day. The cold towel and ice cream were very welcome a the end of the tour. Read more Written April 8, 2024
• R4431VNnormas 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Awesome experience and phenomenal tour guide. Our guide was very professional and personable. He had vast historical knowledge and was able to provide a great experience then just posing for pictures at the sites. Of note, he was careful to advise and get consent from the tourists prior to entering the prison cells in Fort Santiago due to the enclosed space and graphic photographs. Great experience! Read more Written March 28, 2024
• mariasS2419JY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A definite recommendation of the best way to tour Old Manilar! Best way to explore the sites! What a great way to tour Old Manila! Steven, our guide, was amazingly knowledgeable and so funny! He kept us entertained as we pedaled from one site to another. As a single female, I was concerned about going alone, but no worries! I don't think this tour would have been as entertaining or engaging had we been in a vehicle. I definitely recommend it! Read more Written March 17, 2024
• Lee J 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun, but no politics please A very informative tour in a fun way to do it. Being on a bike was a refreshing experience. The tour guide was very knowledgeable but he was a little too political which I thought was inappropriate. He must have said “colonizer” at least 15 times in his tour. I felt he was sharing his hatred a little too much. He was also sharing his political thoughts on certain things he was showing us. So when if you get John, please remind him to keep his political views to himself. Read more Written March 3, 2024
• Camper20788381790 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Sunset tour I opted for this tour as i did not have much time in Manila. It was a great choice. Very relaxed. Really interesting to learn about the history of the city. And then to watch the sunset on a rooftop bar was great too. 100% recommend. Read more Written March 3, 2024
• K5437CKhansb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Intramuros on a bike This is a very good way to explore Intramuros. Our tourguide was knowledgeable and the history spanned from before the 1500- century to the Second World War. I arrived a little late and the staff just handled that smooth. Another guide helped me catch up with the group. To bike instead of walking covers more ground and is less tiring. I really recommend the tour and Bambu tours. Read more Written March 1, 2024
• llyons02 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles No need to think twice about doing this tour. Super informative and fun! We were a family of 8 that joined a tour of Intramuros. The guides were funny and informative and kept us safe, stopping traffic when necessary. The eldest (70+yo) and youngest (6yo) in our group took advantage of the Bamborghini - bicycle with a side car - since they don't ride bikes. We enjoyed riding our own bicycles through Intramuros and on the street with other vehicles. The cold towel and ice cream were welcome treats at the end of a great tour. Read more Written February 29, 2024
• B1561XRlindag 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience for confident riders Great experience! I accidentally booked the wrong date but Bamboo Bicycles allowed me to still attend the ride. :) Great learning of the Intramural section of Manila, very close to the port. The ride finished at the start around 3 hours after the beginning of the tour, with a very appreciated icecream. I have to say, don't do the ride if you are not a confident rider - we encountered a lot of traffic on the Manila streets. Also, I thought the brakes on my bike weren't great. The route is pretty flat - and the bikes don't have gears! As to history, it was great to learn. Some of it very confronting. Read more Written February 26, 2024
• Departure08870548362 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tour on a bamboo bike! What a great experience and our guide was super knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The bikes are great to explore Intramuros. Had a blast! Read more Written February 20, 2024
• jessicfung 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Manila Experience! It changed my impression on Manila! Been here few times but mostly for transit to the islands. Also being scammed by few taxi drivers leaving me very bad impression on the city before. It’s my first time doing a tour in Manila. My tour guide John knows the history very well! We have been given lots of information about the past of Philippines. The scenic spots are also very nice. The bambike office itself is situated in a nice historic building offering lots to explore before and after tour. And they are a social enterprise which adds points too. Probably because of that, you can find the locals are very welcoming. Police even helped us stop the traffic when they saw our bikes. I believed they have been doing a good job to the community gaining them so much respect in return. Highly recommend this tour to everyone! Read more Written February 18, 2024
• M9865YXrichardb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun and excitable learning Great afternoon spending some time learning about local history and traditions. Guide was knowledgeable and spoke very good english. Bikes were perfect and the weather was even better. Thank you Read more Written February 8, 2024
• leoneh91 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Easy ride with a great history experience of the Philippines. Our tour guide was awesome & the bikes were easy to ride. We were given a lot of information about old Maynila. A great history & cultural experience. Read more Written February 5, 2024
• F5004MBalexd 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect way to explore and learn about Intramuros We cycled to a number of landmarks throughout Intramuros, all of which had a fascinating, and in some cases, dark, story behind them. Our tour guide, Steven, was funny, friendly and super knowledgeable about the history of Intramuros, which was interesting to learn about. The cycling itself was easy and comfortable, which makes this tour suitable for everyone. I highly recommend it! Read more Written January 30, 2024
• 676JohnS676 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Interesting, informative and sobering tour. It was an interesting and informative tour, especially the exploration of the dungeons used by the Japanese to torture and imprison Filipino and US troops after their successful invasion of the Philippines on December 8, 1941. The Fall of the Philippines resulted in terrible Filipino and US casualties and is considered by many to be the worst US military. This tour brings the prime location of these events and the reality of the brutality to light. It was truly sobering and makes one wonder how it's possible that this kind of horror is happening in the world right now. Read more Written January 23, 2024
• karmakollector 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Comfortable, time-efficient way to explore Intramuros! The Bambike tour of Intramuros was a great way to see the highlights of this neighborhood in a comfortable, time-efficient manner! In less than 3 hours, we were able to see the walls and gates, Santiago Fort, and Manila Cathedral, and had he perfect amount of time to explore each one without taking up too much of the day. The bikes were comfortable, the guide was good, and the bonus scoop of ice cream at the end (with interesting flavor choices including coconut, ube, jackfruit, or avocado) was delicious! Read more Written January 15, 2024

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Intramuros, Luneta lets you ‘eatsperience’ Filipino heritage and culture

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• by Jumalynne Doctolero
• Apr. 8, 2024 1:32 pm in Features

(Photo source: DOT)

In a nation where every region boasts its own distinct culinary heritage, the Philippines, through the Department of Tourism (DOT), is offering an unparalleled gastronomic adventure for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of flavors that define the country's cultural identity. 

The DOT's initiative, called the “Philippine Eatsperience,” has transformed pockets of Rizal Park (Luneta) and Intramuros into vibrant food parks, where over 30 food joints showcase iconic dishes from various regions, promising to tantalize the senses and provide an authentic taste of Filipino hospitality.

The Philippine Eatsperience is a Filipino fiesta-themed food and lifestyle market found in Noli Me Tangere Garden in Rizal Park, and Baluarte Plano Luneta de Sta. Isabel, in Intramuros, Manila, selling various regional cuisines all year round.

From the succulent Cebu lechon to the fiery Bicol Express, these culinary outposts offer a tantalizing glimpse into the diversity of Filipino cuisine in time for the celebration of Filipino Food Month.

The experience is further enriched by weekly food demonstrations and activities, allowing visitors to not only savor the flavors but also gain insights into the cultural significance and preparation methods behind each dish.

Each regional delectable cuisine comes with a distinct story of culture and tradition that beckons travelers to embark on immersive culinary tours that take them on a journey through the country's culinary heartlands. Here are just some of the offerings:

Lechon (Roast Pig)

Lechon was believed to have been adapted from the Spanish colonizers during their regime in the Philippines. The word ‘leche’ means milk, referring to a suckling swine that will be roasted in an open fire. 

Although it acquired the Spanish name, it is believed that the Philippine lechon has pre-Hispanic origins as pigs are one of the native domesticated animals in the country. 

Other European countries might have roast pigs, but the combination of tender and crunchy pig skin and meat can only be experienced in the Philippines. 

The Lechon Festival or “Parada ng Lechon” is an annual event in the town of Balayan in the province of Batangas. The festival, which started way back in 1959, is celebrated every 24th of June in honor of St. John the Baptist. 

Chicken Inasal (Barbecue)

Chicken inasal is believed to have emerged in the city of Bacolod in 1946, by a man named Banoy Velez from Oton, Iloilo who started the Velez Inasal. However, the popularity of inasal can be traced back to Bacolod’s Caudra Street or Chicken Alley in the 1970s. 

At present, chicken inasal’s popularity has resulted in a handful of restaurants all over the country offering different approaches to Bacolod’s inasal.

Ilocos Empanada (Turnover)

Historically, the empanada was brought to Ilocos province by the Spaniards and Latin Americans during their occupation. 

The Spanish empanada is made out of a wheat flour crust, stuffed with fillings of meat, vegetables, sauce and cheese. And as time goes by, Ilocanos have slowly transformed it into a Filipino cuisine that is formed by a rice or galapong wrapper stuffed with shredded green papaya, egg, longganisa with garlic flavor. 

Bicol Express (Chili pepper stew)

Bicol Express’ origins can be traced back to three legends. Some natives say that it came from a story related to the Philippine National Railway (PNR), some link it to Indonesian origin, and some to an Ilocano dish. 

Bicol Express became an instant favorite in every Filipino home that loves spicy food as it consists of a lot - (when I say a lot, it means the portion of the chili is more than the portion of the meat) of chili peppers, coconut milk and tender pork. 

Street Food

Filipino street foods like kwek-kwek, dynamite, and kikiam are now a part of every Filipino’s life as they are widely available anywhere, anytime. 

Kwek-kwek is made of quail eggs coated in orange batter. While kikiam came from the Chinese word “que-kiam” meaning minced meat and vegetables. 

When the economic crisis hit the country in the 1970s, street foods became so popular due to their cheap price, they have since become a staple of culinary tourism in the country.

So if you’re coming to the Philippines, your experience would be incomplete without having to try these flavorful Filipino dishes. 

As part of DOT’s flagship project Philippine Experience Program (PEP), Eatsperience celebrates Filipino fiesta vibes, recognizing the significant role of food, gastronomy, and hospitality in shaping the country’s tourism landscape.

Experience this distinct culinary circuit while appreciating the view of historical sites from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Fridays to Sundays in Luneta Park, and 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily in Intramuros, Manila. 

You can also book a Hop-on-Hop-Off (HOHO) tour in the City of Manila to visit these fiesta markets with over 30 food junctions, cooking demonstrations, and tastings that await hungry travelers. 

The Philippine Eatsperience is in collaboration with the Intramuros Administration (IA) and the National Park Development Committee (NPDC) launched in time for the celebration of the Filipino Food Month 2024, or “ Buwan ng Kalutong Filipino .” 

An annual celebration declaring April of each year as Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong Filipino, aims to ensure the appreciation, preservation, and transmission of Filipino culinary traditions. (JVD/PIA-NCR)

• #streetfood
• #pagkaingpinoy
• #filipinofood
• #culinarytourism
• #filipinocuisine
• #bicolexpress
• #foodttraveller
• #foodvlogger
• #lovephilippines

About the Author

Jumalynne Doctolero

Information Officer

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