places to visit in manila

Top 19 Things to Do and Places to Visit in Manila City The Philippine Capital & Nearby

• 1. Travel Back in Time at Intramuros

Fort Santiago

Manila cathedral, san agustin church, plaza de roma, casa manila, baluarte de san diego, bahay tsinoy, 2. visit rizal park, 3. explore the national museum complex, national museum of fine arts, national museum of anthropology, national museum of natural history, national planetarium.

• 4. Have a Food Trip at Binondo
• Binondo Church

5. Shop Until You Drop in Manila Stores

Greenhills shopping center, tiendesitas.

• SM Mall of Asia

SM Megamall

6. pray at quiapo church.

• 7. Hop-On Board the Unique Modes of Transport

8. Enjoy a Visit to The Ocean Park

9. spend a day at roxas boulevard, cultural center of the philippines complex, bsp money museum.

• 10. Marvel at the Malacañang Palace

11. Explore the Modern Cities of Manila

Bonifacio global city, taft avenue, 12. get artsy at cubao expo, 13. visit paco park and cemetery.

• 14. Enjoy the Nightlife

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Tomas morato, 15. have a gastronomic food trip, maginhawa street.

• 16. Join the Weekend Markets

Salcedo Market

Legazpi market, mercato centrale, 17. visit fun modern museums, the dessert museum, lakbay museo (permanently closed starting july 2022), art in island, upside down, mind museum, 18. explore university campuses, the university of the philippines-diliman, the university of santo tomas, 19. join a day trip from manila.

• Mt. Pinatubo

Discover Manila's lovely and vibrant city. Find out the best places to visit, the local delicacies you should try, and the different modes of transportation when visiting the metro.

The Philippines' capital city, Manila , is often the jump-off point to the country's incredible beaches, stunning islands, and unique natural wonders. However, there are many tourist spots to visit in Manila itself! It's a beautiful city full of surprises and amazing things to try.

See our popular Manila Tours & Activities

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• Check out our article on Instagrammable cafes in Manila

For first-time visitors, Manila may seem overwhelming to explore. But it's quite manageable once you have a well-planned travel itinerary. You can also book a car rental in Manila if you want to explore at your own pace. Just make sure you have the requirements to rent a car in the Philippines .

• Find the best Manila hotels that you can book
• Book your  flight ticket to Manila

You're bound to fall in love with Manila thanks to its interesting tourist spots, foodie destinations, and fun activities. Read on to find out the best things to do and places to see in the bustling capital of the Philippines and its neighboring cities:

1. Travel Back in Time at Intramuros      

Intramuros , known as the "Walled City," is the oldest district and historic core of Manila.  Intramuros tours are a must-try for history buffs because there are so many things to do in Intramuros . 

This iconic Manila landmark is actually a walled area within the modern city. It was the seat of government and political power when the Philippines was still under Spanish rule. 

Intramuros is Manila's only district where travelers can see complete architectural remnants of the Spanish Era.  A day trip to Intramuros is enough for you to go sightseeing in this well-preserved historical attraction.

• Check out this San Agustin Church to Manila Cathedral tour

Wander along paved roads and visit historical monuments and sculptures. You can even join a bambike tour  (you will explore via a bamboo bike), try riding a  kalesa, or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage experience. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Intramuros:

It's one of two significant squares in Intramuros. The plaza is regarded as the area's center of trade during the colonial past. 

This building houses the Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Center, a museum that documents the history, lives, and contributions of Chinese ethnicity in Philippine life and history.

See our popular Intramuros Tours

He was a doctor and novelist who was shot by firing squad at this site on December 30, 1896, on charges of fostering local rebellion against the Spanish government. 

Rizal Park features monuments, squares and gardens, large stadiums, observatories, an open-air concert hall, sound and light theaters, shops, food kiosks, playgrounds, and many fountains.

The park is split into three areas, starting with the 16-hectare Agrifina Circle adjacent to Taft Avenue. It's where the Department of Tourism and the National Museum of Anthropology are situated.

Then there's the northeastern segment; followed by the 22-hectare park extending down to Roxas Boulevard. Lastly, the central section finishing at the southwestern part contains Burnham Green. Join a Rizal Park tour with Intramuros to get a full experience of this destination.

The National Museum of the Philippines has several sections included in National Museum trips: Art, Anthropology, Natural History, and the Planetarium.

All are within the same building complex and are home to permanent collections representing the various facets of art, culture, and history of the country. Joining a National Museum tour will take you around the best museums in the area.

The collection here contains both classical and contemporary Filipino paintings and sculptures. The famous paintings by the Philippine revolutionary artist Juan Luna, including The Spoliarium, are a must-see. 

It features collections of artifacts of Anthropology and Archaeology. You can also have a look at the old Philippine script called "Baybayin," as well as a collection of cultural memories from native people throughout the nation.

This museum presents the rich biodiversity of the country, including Lolong's skeleton, which used to be the world's largest caught crocodile and placed in captivity. Another highlight is The Tree of Life, a glass elevator and a canopy-inspired roof.

It contains astronomic displays of celestial bodies and their real-life projections. They also offer displays, presentations, and demonstrations for travelers who would like to have a unique planetarium experience.

See our popular Museum Tours

Cebu city & lapu-lapu city top heritage attractions tour with transfers, aklan calawag mountain resort & tibiao museum tour with lunch & transfers, baguio museum and arts tour with lunch & transfers, 4. have a food trip at binondo        .

Binondo is a lively and historic Manila site. It was founded in 1594 and is considered to be the world's first Chinatown. Like the other Chinatowns, tours to Binondo restaurants are fun as the town is made up of tight and vibrant alleys with must-try foodie spots. 

It is packed with hole-in-the-wall joints, traditional bakeries, and budget-friendly streetside shops. One of the best ways to see its beauty is by trying out a guided tour in Binondo .

See our popular Binondo Tours

Binondo church .

Mass generally takes place in English, Tagalog, and Chinese in this church. The church is also called the San Lorenzo Ruiz Basilica Minor.

Escolta 

This used to house the stores of Chinese merchants during the galleon trade in Manila.

Food Trip 

Shopping is one of the most enjoyable activities in Manila because of the multitude of malls here. Here are some of the best places to shop in the metro: 

There are a lot of shops in Quiapo. For gadgets, you can go to Raon and Hidalgo Street. For arts and handicrafts, you can go to Palanca Street and Plaza Miranda. Go to Quinta Market and Carriedo Street for other necessities.

They have a big market. You can look through so many shops and stores. The stores have a variety of products, from very affordable to more costly.

It's a charming shopping mall and has a mix of thrift stalls and significant shops. There are also excellent restaurants around.

This place in Pasig City has it all, from indigenous cuisine and fashion to furniture, antiquities, arts and crafts. Tiendesitas has shops from over 450 merchants, most of whom offer specialty goods, mainly from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

SM Mall of Asia

SM Mall of Asia, or MOA, is particularly famous for both domestic and international visitors. It is the biggest shopping center in the Philippines and has several establishments. It's often part of a bargain shopping experience in Manila.

• Book a  Gootopia 1-hour pass
• Make your own desserts with a Bakebe day pass

It's the third-largest shopping mall in the Philippines. Aside from their various stores in the different buildings, they have their own Mega Fashion Hall.

The establishment combines high-end boutiques, restaurants, shopping amenities, leisure areas, and entertainment halls.

The façade of Quiapo Church, built in the baroque style, stands out from both sides with its rolling towers. A third of its column twists close to the foundation, while the bottom part has a soft surface.

The top of the four-story bell towers is adorned with balustrades and enormous scrolls. It’s a popular church included in most pilgrimage tours in the country.

In the early 1980s, a four-foil window in the center of the front of the church was screened, and a picture of the pope's crossed keys and tiara was substituted. Only the facade and the transept dome maintained the classic architecture with its latest refurbishment.

7. Hop-On Board the Unique Modes of Transport   

There are distinctive transport modes that you can use to discover Manila . Jeepneys and tricycles are two of the most common transportation vehicles used by locals. 

Inaugurated in March 2008, the park is famous for the Oceanarium, which has around 14,000 creatures belonging to around 277 different species native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. A Manila Ocean Park ticket  will allow you to see the Oceanarium and other park facilities.

The park is also highly informative and instructional, especially for sightseeing activities.

It has become famous for its country club, restaurants, eateries, commercial properties, parks, and gardens. It's also the location of the CCP Complex, Baywalk, Star City, and the BSP Money Museum.

The CCP Complex is an 88-hectare sport, cultural, and art playground. The National Theater, Folk Arts Theater, CCP Library and Archive, Philippine International Convention Center, and Manila Film Center can be found in the complex.

It's a promenade facing Manila Bay. The Baywalk is a two-kilometer path that starts at the US Embassy,  and is close to Rizal Park and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, just past Manila Yacht Club.

The BSP Money Museum, located in central Bangko in the Philippines, shows the development of the Filipino economy and its past.

The displays are chronologically arranged from the Pre-Hispanic Period, Spanish, and Revolutionary Periods to the American, Japanese, and present-day Republic.

The museum is full of elegant barter coats, gold rocks, gold barter chains, old paper money, envelope bills, and silver banknotes.

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Malacañang Palace is the official building and principal department of the President of the Philippines. It's connected to Mendiola Street in San Miguel, Manila. 

Malacañang includes many mansions and departments, primarily built in a neoclassical style. Among the many heritage trips  in the country, visiting Malacañang Palace is one of the most recommended.

Originally built as a private household home, Malacañang has been transformed into a magnificent Spanish colonial home. It consists primarily of wooden buildings complete with courtyards and azoteas.

Visiting Malacañang Palace is a great opportunity to learn more about its contribution to the country’s history.

• Poblacion Makati rooftop hopping
• Poblacion Makati street party
• BGC game night
• Binondo Manila basic photography lessons
• Korean culture experience in Quezon City

There's much to learn from the remnants of the past and how it's incorporated into the present, which is why it's also great to join a Manila tour with modern and historical attractions . After all, the Philippines is a progressive country. Here are some of the modern cities of Manila you can visit during your trip:

In addition to being one of the significant financial, academic, and business institutions in all of Asia, it is the economic core of the Philippines.

• Book a  Sentro Spa massage in Manila

More known as BGC, it's a leisure district in Metro Manila. Besides the tall buildings, you'll also see high-end retail stores here. You can dine in world-class hotels and restaurants and be amused by several activities.

It's primarily considered to be a component of the University Belt, with several of Manila's leading colleges and universities nearby.

This, plus its closeness to primary forms of travel, provides Taft Avenue, the youthful atmosphere and accessibility it is known for.

Cubao Expo has housed aesthetic institutions, art galleries, thrift stores, and shoe shops for several years. One may lose oneself among vintage comics, knick-knacks, and unique finds in this place.

Cubao Expo also serves as a lifestyle center. Here you will discover a handful of options for lunch or dinner. The place also hosts events such as poetry reading, book sales, concerts, and different kinds of conventions.

Paco Park is a leisure and nature park that was constructed by Dominicans in the Spanish colonial era. It is on the main street of General Luna in Paco, Manila and the eastern part of Padre Faura Street.

During the reign of President Diosdado Macapagal, the reserve was transformed into a national park in 1966. Since then, the park has been progressively rebuilt and has been a government beach and community promenade.

14. Enjoy the Nightlife 

Filipinos love to party! With their passion for singing and dancing coupled with excellent humor, you're bound to encounter some exciting and enjoyable events when visiting Manila's hot nightspots.

• Crimson Hotel Manila package
• Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila package
• Ascott Makati package
• Somerset Millennium Makati package
• Somerset Central Salcedo Makati package
• Somerset Alabang Manila package
• Citadines Salcedo Makati package
• Citadines Bay City Manila package
• The Belamy House Makati Manila hotel package
• City Garden Hotel Makati package

There are various places throughout Manila, Makati , and Quezon City , where you can encounter all types of bars and restaurants to eat, drink, and chill at. Naturally, it's based on whether you want something lowkey or a full-on club scene. Here are some locations you should visit:

This is Makati's famous nightlife district, with a wide variety of beautiful hotels and bars to let individuals unwind from stress. Visiting this area is one of the fun activities in Makati .

This is a famous place for amusement. There are many fine establishments and cafes along this street, including discotheques, karaoke joints, and comedy clubs. 

One of the best things to do in Manila is to have a gastronomic adventure, and what better way try local cuisine than going on  food trips ! Try street food such as the infamous balut.

• Read our article on the best buffets in Manila

There are also fish balls, kwek-kwek, kikiam, taho, and sorbetes that are generally marketed in tiny shops.

Try halo-halo, a famous Filipino dessert of shaved ice and evaporated milk, with several other components, for a delicious snack. Aside from Binondo, you can have a local food trip here:

Several local restaurants started on this 2.2-kilometer road as hole-in-the-wall food places before becoming increasingly popular due to locals loving the vibrant and trendy atmosphere.

This is the name of Makati's famous food trucks. They're affordable and found within area points in Makati. Local favorites are Sisig from Rada Street, Mang Lirio's from Palanca Street, and Bulalo and Pares from Esteban Street.

This is an area renowned for its charming and eclectic vibe. Kapitolyo has two primary roads. East Drive features cheaper, more inexpensive establishments, while West Drive offers more intimate date places and unique events.

16. Join the Weekend Markets

If you get excited about shopping for local products, an excellent activity is to join a city excursion at a weekend market in Manila !

Sample a combination of delicious meals and Philippine cuisine, observe local entrepreneurs selling products, and discover unique things visiting a weekend market, like those listed below:

This weekend market starts at 6 AM on Saturdays. There are delicacies from all over the world so that you can enjoy distinct global flavors as well as local culinary delights.

This market is available only at 7 AM on Sundays. What's unique about this market is its dry goods stalls. You can purchase many artsy items, from pictures to hand-crafted products.

This food night market is available during scheduled evenings in Makati, Pasig, Intramuros, and Rizal Park. You'll discover an enormous range of meals and snacks you can consume. Wash it down with your choice of drink.

Modern museums should be on your list if you're the type of traveler who wants to experience something new. It's a way for curators to present artwork in a different form. Here are some museum trips  you can try in Manila:

This is a great spot to see desserts, eat them, and take unique pictures as well. Buying an admission ticket to the Dessert Museum is worth it as it's different from other museums.

• Book a 2-hour Dessert Museum Ticket to 8 Themed Rooms & Complimentary Dessert
• See our other Philippine museum day passes

Art in Island, one of the world's largest animated 3D art museums, enables visitors to take beautiful photos with wall-to-floor sculptures. The employees can take your image as you give your best poses in each of the 12 areas.

If you like to take pictures in a unique manner, this museum will definitely surprise you. Discover creativity within yourself when you transform your pictures upside down.

The Philippines doesn't fall short of beautiful universities. These locations are not only home to academic institutions but are also notable Manila destinations. 

The University Academic Oval is a circular street lined with buildings with different architecture and shaded by a canopy of acacia trees. The University of the Philippines also has its own UP Cine Adarna next to the UP Theater and the UP Carillon tower.

Known as one of Asia's oldest universities, UST has a wealthy heritage visible on its campus. There is even a magnificent museum full of memorabilia and pictures here.

After enjoying  tours in Manila , you can venture out to nearby provinces. Whether you're a traveler wanting to discover more places beyond the metro or a local who wants to take some time off from the city, these are some great options:

It's best to join a Corregidor experience to fully immerse yourself in this breathtaking piece of history.

See our popular Tagaytay Tours and Activities

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This is the Philippines' third-largest lake. Taal Volcano, one of the smallest active volcanoes in the globe, is inside it. Make sure to enjoy and take photos of this fantastic destination.

Mt. Pinatubo 

See our popular Mount Pinatubo Tours

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• Cebu to Manila flights
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It offers so many great things for both locals and internationals alike, such as sightseeing tours, food and culinary trips, museum-hopping excursions, biking trips, historical and heritage immersions, adventure and nature park visits, and hiking excursions.

Start planning your trip to Manila now! Explore Manila tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary for a complete and hassle-free travel experience.

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Manila

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Anietra Hamper has traveled throughout Manila and the Philippines experiencing many of the top attractions and things to do off the beaten path.

The busy city of Manila, the capital of the Philippines , is an exciting and energetic metropolis. Hop on board any of the colorful and kitschy jeepneys to get around town. The iconic buses that usually pack in more people than they can hold are the main form of transportation and worth at least one ride during your visit, just for the experience.

Manila has an eclectic mix of modern attractions and rich history , as evidenced by the many cathedrals and tributes to the city's 16th-century establishment alongside modern-day malls and amenities.

Some of the best places to visit in Manila are the churches, monuments, and impeccably landscaped public parks. Manila is full of restaurants that serve up local fare, including fresh seafood.

The city is a regular target for typhoons, so the best time to visit the Philippines is outside of the rainy season, which is May through November.

For other sightseeing ideas, read our list of the top attractions and things to do in Manila.

1. Experience Manila's Oldest Section in Intramuros

2. dive deep at manila ocean park, 3. san agustin church and museum, 4. stroll through rizal park, 5. walk the grounds at fort santiago, 6. admire quiapo church and public square, 7. view the skyline from manila bay, 8. discover filipino history at the national museum of the philippines, 9. robinsons place mall, 10. tour manila on bambike ecotours, 11. shop for bargains at divisoria market, 12. spend a day at the sm city manila super mall, where to stay for sightseeing in manila, map of tourist attractions & things to do in manila, manila, philippines - climate chart.

You will likely pass through the Intramuros whether you know it or not as you explore Manila. It is the oldest section of the city and characterized by its walled fortress. This section of Manila was once a walled city during Spanish Colonial times in the 1500s to the 1800s.

Walk around inside the three-mile-long stone wall that surrounds the district. While you can walk the grounds on your own, you might want to take a guided walking tour to learn more about the walled city and its significance to Manila.

Address: Bonifacio Drive & Padre Burgos Street, Manila, Luzon

The Manila Ocean Park is one of the most unique adventures in the city and one of the top things to do for families visiting Manila. Get interactive with marine life with the Sharks and Rays Encounter; Trails to Antarctica exhibit; or the fish spa, where fish clean your feet in a small pool of water.

The park easily fills several hours depending on how many encounters you try. In addition to the state-of-the-art aquatic facility, you will see exhibits of birds and other animals.

The Manila Ocean Park is billed as a marine theme park . Besides the educational aquatic attractions, there is shopping, dining, and HOTEL H20 , where you can sleep surrounded by an aquarium.

Address: Manila Ocean Park Luneta, Manila

As a designated UNESCO World Heritage site , the San Agustin Church is a national treasure and one of the most popular places to visit in the Philippines .

This Catholic church has a unique history that is reflected in the details of the building. If you look closely, you will see both Chinese and Spanish influences in the design. The church has been rebuilt several times after battles and natural disasters.

Pay close attention to the carvings on the large wooden doors that open to the chapel. If you have an interest in history or architecture, it would be worth your time to hire a local guide who can take you on a walking tour of the area and describe intricate details of the church that you may not notice on your own.

Address: Gen Luna & Real Streets, Intramuros, Manila, Luzon 1002

One of your first stops in Manila should be Rizal Park. Sometimes referred to as Luneta Park , this is a peaceful and manicured outdoor garden located in the heart of the city. The park is a social gathering place in Manila known for its open-air concerts and chess plaza .

The paved pathways through the park guide you through a lush landscape of blooming flowers, ponds, and more than 40 points of interest that range from statues to historical dedications. Of note is the century-old Monument of Rizal , which houses the remains of one of the Philippines' most celebrated heroes, Dr. Jose Rizal.

Be sure to stroll through the park to learn about the local flora and fauna. Keep your eyes open for the Narra tree, the national tree of the Philippines, and the small lake with an artistically raised archipelago structure in the middle.

The site of Fort Santiago is an impressive stop if you are visiting the city and it is one of the most important historical sites in Manila . This 16th-century fortress was key in protecting the Intramuros, which is the oldest district in Manila, known historically as the Walled City.

You can explore the grounds at a leisurely pace. Be sure to take note of bullet markings that are still visible in the fortress walls and stop by the visitor center for more detailed information about the fort.

Address: Gen Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, Luzon

The Quiapo Church is one of the oldest and most admired Catholic churches in Manila. The more formal name of the church is the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene .

Depending on the time of day, the plaza surrounding the century-old church can be quite congested, which makes it an interesting place to visit to admire the devotion of the Filipino people.

Fridays are the busiest days, when thousands of people pile into the square and pray at the church for novena. Despite the large gatherings of church devotees, this is one of the top attractions in the city.

Take time to see the inside of the church, and stroll through the market stands outside to buy fresh peanuts, mangoes, or necklaces from local vendors.

Address: Plaza Miranda & Quezon Blvd., Quiapo, Manila, Luzon

Strolling along the Manila Bay waterfront is one of the most enjoyable and scenic things to do in the city, and it does not cost anything to enjoy. The natural harbor is always bustling with activity. Take a walk along the Manila Baywalk at sunset for a great view of the city skyline.

The bayfront is accented by yachts and smaller boats anchored in the harbor, and open-air cafés where you can stop for a bite to eat. The bay front is also a popular place for locals taking in a morning jog.

Another relaxing way to enjoy Manila Bay is to book a sunset dinner cruise that will take you past local landmarks and includes dinner and live entertainment for an evening.

For a true exploration into the culture of the country, the National Museum of the Philippines is one of the best places to visit.

This museum has four main complexes including extensive collections and artifacts relating to art, archaeology, anthropology, zoology, biology, and natural history. The museum galleries help offer a sense of place, telling the cultural story beyond what you will find on your own visiting the city's many historical attractions.

Address: Padre Burgos Street, Manila, Luzon 2004

While a mall might not be on the top of your list for exploring the culture of Manila, Robinsons Place Mall has a surprising number of unique stores where you can find local items . While locals shop here, it's also a popular spot for tourists.

Be on the lookout for clothing, cosmetics, bags, and food that are unique to the Philippines. The mall is extensive, so plan time to walk the interior and explore the stores.

The mall's modern building is a stark contrast to the rustic and historic landmarks that surround it.

Address: Pedro Gil Corner Adriatico Street, Manila, Luzon

Manila is a pedestrian-friendly city , but if you want to explore the culture and history more efficiently, consider the Intramuros Bamboo Bicycle Ecotours .

These tours provide a unique, eco-friendly way to see urban Manila. By taking an ecotour, you are also supporting environmental sustainability efforts of local businesses.

Bambikes are locally hand-made bicycles custom-built from bamboo. The company has a social welfare initiative that employs villagers for the production of the bikes.

Address: Real Street, corner General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila

If you are in the mood to shop for a bargain, head to the lively Divisoria Market in Manila. It is located in the heart of Chinatown, where you will discover overflowing vendor stalls selling everything from fruit and spices to flip-flops and beads.

This is the best place to people-watch and take in the local flavor. The bustling atmosphere is like a flea market, and bargaining is the name of the game. You should only pay about 50 percent of the price of an item, and often you can get souvenirs for much lower.

Address: Claro M. Recto Avenue, Divisoria, Manila, Luzon

There's no shortage of places to shop in Manila, so if you want to fill your suitcase with treasures, plan a half day or full day at the SM City Manila Super Mall . It is like one-stop shopping for something to do in the city because the huge complex has retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment.

The SM City Manila is easy to spot. It has a mega globe structure on the grounds, which makes for a great selfie spot. This retail complex is popular with the locals, so it can get quite crowded.

If you are looking for more unique souvenirs, you might want to hit the smaller local markets but if you are after mainstream items, you are sure to find them at the super mall.

Manila hotels are quite affordable, even the high-end hotels. You will have no problem finding something in your budget on any side of town.

Luxury Hotels:

• One of the top luxury hotels in Manila is the Sheraton Manila Bay , which even provides all guests with butler service. It is a preferred choice for business travelers, but if you want a little extra pampering during your visit, the hotel offers top-of-the-line amenities.
• The luxury New Coast Hotel Manila sits on Manila Bay , so you have some of the best views in the city, and it is centrally located for easy walking downtown and to local restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• One of the most unique lodging experiences in Manila is Hotel H20 located at the Manila Ocean Park. Go to sleep in an aquarium-walled room and wake up next to marine life.
• The historic Manila Hotel is another mid-range lodging situated on Manila Bay close to many of Manila's attractions.

Budget Hotels :

• The affordable Red Planet Manila Binondo is highly rated and located close to Chinatown in Manila. The hotel is just a few blocks from several historic churches and the Divisoria Market .
• For a centrally located budget hotel the Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central is a good option. The Ramada is located close to many of the cultural sites and local transportation access points.

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More of the Philippines: Manila is just one of the many great places to visit in the Philippines . There are so many additional side trips that you can add to your itinerary, from stunning beaches to other islands in the archipelago. Traveling throughout the Philippines is easy, so you can play it by ear as you review some of the top things to do in the country, from diving to exploring natural attractions like the Chocolate Hills on the island of Bohol.

Home » Travel Guides » The Philippines » 25 Best Things to Do in Manila (the Philippines)

25 Best Things to Do in Manila (the Philippines)

The capital of the Philippines doesn’t always make the news for the right reasons, but if you want a vivacious and underappreciated city, Manila is ready to challenge your assumptions.

There’s a walled citadel from where the Spanish ruled their eastern empire for centuries, Baroque churches and packed, crazy markets that might be the wrong side of aromatic but are obligatory all the same. And insulated from the chaos and choked streets are some of the largest malls anywhere in the world, of such mind-bending proportions that you’ll feel like you’re in a whole other town.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Manila :

1. Intramuros

The oldest part of the city is all there was of Manila before the 20th century.

it’s a tight grid system contained by sturdy 16th and 17th century walls, and is a big contrast to the high-rise cityscape around it.

This was the capital of the Spanish East Indies from the 16th century to 1898, and has the appropriate churches, courtyard palaces and administrative buildings in beautiful colonial architecture.

Like many old colonial settlements Intramuros has the strange feeling of a European city centre far from Europe.

A few attractions on this list are in Intramuros, but look out for the statue of King Carlos IV on Plaza de Roma, the newly restored Ayuntamiento building and the Puerta de Isabel II gate, with a statue of the Queen.

Tour on foot, by calesa horse-drawn carriage or motorised tricycle.

2. San Agustin Church

Begun at the end of the 16th century, this spectacular building is a UNESCO site and the oldest stone-built church in the Philippines.

The church is in the resplendent Baroque style and needs a visit for its marvellous interior where trompe l’oeil paintings on the barrel vault and pilasters mimic pediments, reliefs, rosettes, laurels and other intricate mouldings.

There’s a crucifix from the 1500s in the chancel, while the 17th-century stalls in the choir are hewn from rich molave wood inlaid with ivory.

Get there early or late in the day as the church closes to the public when weddings are on.

3. San Agustin Museum

The monastery attached to the church was wrecked during the Second World War, but was rebuilt in the 1970s and its former refectory, sacristy, crypt, halls and library now hold a museum.

This is an insight into Manila’s colonial years and the history of the Catholic faith in the Philippines.

There’s a big cache of ecclesiastical art including paintings, wooden statues, crucifixes, furniture, antique missals, old vestments and altars brought here from churches around the country.

You’ll also be given plenty of detail about the history of the city, from the arrival of the Spanish in the 1500s to the partial destruction of Manila in 1945.

4. Chinatown

At first glance Manila’s Chinatown doesn’t seem like much of a tourist spot; it is noisy, a bit run-down and the traffic is often in gridlock.

But it helps to remember that there has been a Chinese trading presence in the region since the 800s, and this quarter, known as Bindondo, grew as a neighbouring town for the oppressed Hokkien Chinese immigrants and their descendants throughout the Spanish colonial era.

The best way to see it is from a jeepney or calesa.

It deserves your time for the Kuang Kong and Seng Guan Buddhist temples, and the herbal stores and vendors along Ongpin and Carvajal Streets.

If you’re feeling peckish, there’s no better area in Manila for dim sum.

5. Ayala Museum

In Makati there’s a museum about the Philippines’ art, ethnology and archaeology in the large, air-conditioned former stock exchange building.

There are six main permanent exhibitions, dealing with traditional Filipino maritime vessels, embroidered silk worn by the Philippines’ 19th-century elite, porcelain as a legacy of a thousand years of trade with China, and works of art from the 19th and 20th centuries by artists like Fernando Zóbel and Juan Luna.

One astonishing gallery abounds with gold items made by Filipino cultures before colonisation, while you can get up to speed with the country’s history with 60 chronologically ordered models at the Diorama Experience.

6. Manila Baywalk

The waterside promenade on Manila Bay is special in the evening when you can watch the sun go down.

Those gleaming waters were the scene for the Battle of Manila Bay between the United States Navy and Spain in 1898, which ended in a decisive American victory and brought the curtain down on the more than 300 years of Spanish rule.

The Baywalk is two kilometres from the American Embassy down to the Cultural Center of the Philippines and has a line of palms buffering it from the busy Roxas Boulevard.

Across the road are skyscrapers, and as you get down to the Manila Yacht Club there’s a precinct with cafes and restaurants.

This is a genial little area, with live music street performers and food vendors.

7. Fort Santiago

Built in 1571, the military base for the Spanish government was in the northwest corner of Intramuros, close to the cathedral.

The Battle of Manila took its toll on the compound in the Second World War, but a lot of this was subsequently restored.

The monumental  main gate has the Spanish coat of arms below a relief of the Spanish patron saint Santiago Matamoros.

The fort is also somewhere to get in touch with the Philippines’ independence movement.

At the start of the Philippine Revolution in 1896-1898, the national hero José Rizal was incarcerated here before his execution.

You can see where he was imprisoned, and there’s a shrine in his honour, replicating his ancestral home.

8. Manila Cathedral

Founded in 1571 Manila Cathedral has suffered fire, earthquakes and war, and the imposing monument on Plaza de Roma today is actually the 8th rebuild.

That does nothing to detract from the sight, and unlike San Agustin you can go in even if a wedding is in progress.

The cathedral went through a restoration a few years ago, and Pope Francis gave a mass in 2015 not long after it reopened.

Things to keep an eye out for are the high vaults in the nave, the reflective marble floor and stained glass windows designed by the 20th-century Filipino artist Galo Ocampo.

9. Rizal Park

At the southern limit of Intramuros is a park and plaza integral to Philippine history.

Independence was officially declared here in 1946, and this is where the patriot José Rizal was executed in 1896, bringing the Philippine Revolution to a head.

The monument at the spot where he was killed was erected in 1913 on the 17th anniversary of his death.

It holds his remains and is guarded day and night by soldiers from the Marine Corps.

At the western end the Quirino Grandstand, with a capacity of 10,000, was set up specifically for the independence proclamation in 1946. Beyond all this historical significance, the park is also a rare open space in the city, a green island against some of the world’s most congested streets.

10. National Museum of Fine Arts

On the east side of Rizal Park, this museum has paintings and sculptures by the most prominent Filipino artists in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Among them are Juan Luna, Fernando Zóbel and Félix Hidalgo, who represented a wave of Filipino art that swelled as the country was pushing for independence from Spain.

That is the context for the museum’s showpiece, the Spoliarium by Juan Luna.

This painting from 1884 won the gold medal at the Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid, and its symbolism, showing dead gladiators being dragged away from the circus, was not lost on José Rizal.

11. Casa Manila

The Barrio San Luis in Intramuros has a house-museum that shines a light on the Spanish colonial period in Manila.

The house isn’t as old as it looks; it was built in the 1980s but is a faithful reproduction of a mid-19th century house on Calle Jaboneros.

It has a stone base and painted wood structure on the upper floor, with a passageway opening onto a courtyard with palms and a fountain.

Inside you can make your way through richly decorated lounges, bedrooms and into the kitchen and bathroom.

Each room has its share of authentic artefacts, including the bathroom, which has a peculiar wooden twin lavatory.

12. Paco Park

Another stop on the José Rizal trail, the very solemn Paco Park was where the national hero was first interred after his execution in 1896. This park has a circular format and was a cemetery throughout the 19th century.

But in 1912 the tombs in the niches were cleared and the remains delivered back to their families.

You can still make out these niches, filled in and cemented over, and there’s a balustraded walkway on top of the walls that contain them.

In the middle is a pretty sequestered garden with lawns, trees and flowerbeds, and the circular cemetery chapel of St Pancratius.

13. Bahay Tsinoy

As we hinted earlier, there has been Chinese community in the Philippines since long before the Spanish colonial period, and this museum in Intramuros records the history, culture and achievements of this minority.

Across three floors you’ll learn about the early exchanges and first arrivals in the 9th century, and the difficult, itinerant lifestyle many Chinese endured in colonial times.

Independence brought on a period of assimilation and opportunity, when Chinese business owners help lead the Philippines’ industrialisation.

There are prints, photographs and ceramics, and profiles of 20th-century Chinese Filipino figures like former president Corazon Aquino.

14. Quiapo Church

As with the other places of worship in Manila, this church has suffered through earthquakes and war.

But during this time it has kept its Baroque facade, which has a majestic pediment, flanked by two towers and supported by Corinthian columns.

You might need a double-take when you step inside, as the shiny white interior is totally modern and dates to the 1980s.

The goal of a visit should be to see the Black Nazarene in the altar.

This is a full-sized icon of Christ carrying a cross.

It is made of dark wood, and was crafted in Mexico, ending up in Manila in 1606. The icon’s feast day is January 9 (Traslación), and is an epic display of religious piety, with hundreds of thousands of penitents joining a barefoot procession.

15. Chinese Cemetery

A remnant of the colonial period, this cemetery was plotted for Chinese residents who weren’t allowed to be buried in Manila’s Catholic cemeteries.

It’s another attraction that fills you in on Filipino culture, and was the site of many executions in the Japanese occupation during the Second World War.

And the difference between these hushed gardens and memorials, and the streets of Manila is palpable.

The Chong Hock Tong temple dates to the 1850s, and so is th oldest in Manila, boasting a design that resembles the temples in China’s Fujian Province.

Also pause at Liat See Tong, a memorial hall for the Chinese community leaders and scholars who were killed by the Japanese.

16. Pasay Seafood Market

This is a heaving market near the Mall of Asia, set along tight aisles where stalls are piled with shrimp, lobster, langoustine, crab, mussels and all sorts of fish from tuna to blue marlin.

There’s a neat a custom where you buy what you want from these stalls and then take it to the restaurants outside the market to prepare it to your taste.

This can be a pricey way to dine, but you’ll be reassured that the produce is as fresh and can be, and you can spread the cost out if you’re in a big group.

17. Greenbelt Mall

In Makati there’s a mammoth upscale mall complex that almost beggars belief.

It’s couched in Makati’s dynamic skyscraper-filled cityscape, and to first-timers seems to be a never-ending series of shopping centres around a park.

There are 300 shops and restaurants, but that doesn’t include the network of offshoots that make it very easy to lose all sense of direction and time.

Shop here for designer fashion brands like Calvin Klein, Gucci and Prada and a multitude of bars, restaurants and coffee shops.

This is just one element of a vast shopping complex interconnected by raised walkways.

18. Greenbelt Chapel

To confirm that Greenbelt is a proper community, there’s a chapel here in a quiet garden surrounded by malls and apartment blocks, and a few steps from the Ayala Museum.

It’s a bit disorientating to suddenly arrive at a place of worship amid all the commerce.

This chapel has been here since the mid-1980s and is often used for weddings and religious ceremonies.

It’s a circular pavilion, with open arches on the perimeter and a gorgeous stained glass skylight in the centre of the ceiling.

19. SM Megamall

The second-largest mall in the Philippines dwarfs even the Greenbelt Mall and is the fourth-largest in the world.

You’ll find it in Ortigas’ business district and now has more than 800 store, having just opened its new “Fashion Mall”. The stores here are aimed squarely at mid-market fashion shoppers, out for bargains at shops like Gap, Topshop, Uniqlo, H&M, Mango, Bershka and Zara.

Part of this enormous complex is the Megatrade Hall, hosting international events and conventions, as well as a skating rink, bowling alley, multi-screen cinema and two separate food courts.

20. Divisoria Market

This market in Tondo is a Manila institution bursting with street food vendors and stalls selling clothing, accessories, handicrafts and fresh produce.

All the fashion items will be knock-offs of course, and most of the vendors are happy to bargain with you.

The throng, noise, traffic, heat and smell can be overpowering, but it’s one of the best ways to see real life in the city.

Your best bet is to go with a guide to avoid getting lost or pickpocketed, and help negotiate the vendors down.

21. Malacañang Palace

The presidential palace made international headlines in 2016 when the new president Rodrigo Duterte refused to move in because of ghosts.

If you’re braver than him and want to see it for yourself you have to plan ahead and book a tour in advance.

The palace was built in 1750 for the nobleman, Don Luís Rocha, later becoming the summer home of the Spanish governor-general.

Since then it’s been a residence for every Spanish and American governor, and then every Philippine president except for the incumbent.

It’s a high-priority document of 20th-century history, with snippets of information here and there, and photos, furniture and general memorabilia for its important former occupants.

22. Videoke

Manila is a musical kind of place, and if you end up at a videoke or karaoke bar on an evening you’ll work this out for yourself.

These nightspots can be found all across the city, including the more upscale neighbourhoods around Greenbelt.

Some are large halls where only the most daring and talented will be able to get up and sing in front of a crowd.

But if that sounds like a nightmare to you there are lots of venues that have group rooms where you can embarrass yourself in front of your friends only.

See Red Boc, Music 21 Plaza, No. 38 Sports Lounge  and Grill, The Suites at Republiq Karaoke and CenterStage.

23. Jeepney Rides

Do this while you still can, as legislation has been passed in 2017 to remove these ageing hulks from the road.

Jeepneys, buses adapted from American jeeps in the 20th century and painted in garish colours.

They are as big a part of Manila’s identity as the yellow cab in New York or double-decker bus in London.

They’re also the cheapest way to get around, as so are almost always overloaded with passengers.

When you get on you often have to ask other passengers to pass your fare to the driver, and you have to shout when you want to get off.

24. Attractions for Kids

If you have youngsters with you there are plenty of options for days out away from the crazy streets and seedier parts of the city.

Generally these can be found around malls, like the branch of Kidzania at Bonifacio Global City.

Where Rizal Park meets Manila Bay there’s the Ocean Park, showcasing the marine life of the western Pacific and South China Sea.

Right next door to in the old Elks Club buildings is the Museo Pambata, which is a hands-on museum approaching science and world affairs in child-friendly ways.

Lastly, one street in from the baywalk is the city zoo, though the conditions might be a little distressing.

And there’s always the Star City theme park, just past the yacht club.

25. Local Specialities

The food scene is so cosmopolitan, and there are so many points of contact (markets, roving vendors, street food carts, restaurants of all descriptions) that you could write an entire book on dining in Manila.

But there are some delicacies that are totally Filipino.

One is Halo-Halo, a sort of granita with evaporated milk, sweet beans, various fruits, agar jelly and yam.

The roast pork in Manila is up there with the best in the world, and barbecued pork skewers are amazing and chicharon, crispy pork rinds is a common snack.

And if you’re really brave you can find balut, which is a street food consisting of a marinated day-old duck still in its shell and eaten whole.

An usual but moreish sweet is ensaymada, a sweet pastry topped with cheese and a legacy from the Spanish period.

25 Best Things to Do in Manila (the Philippines):

• San Agustin Church
• San Agustin Museum
• Ayala Museum
• Manila Baywalk
• Fort Santiago
• Manila Cathedral
• National Museum of Fine Arts
• Casa Manila
• Bahay Tsinoy
• Quiapo Church
• Chinese Cemetery
• Pasay Seafood Market
• Greenbelt Mall
• Greenbelt Chapel
• SM Megamall
• Divisoria Market
• Malacañang Palace
• Jeepney Rides
• Attractions for Kids
• Local Specialities

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• 25 Places To Visit In Manila In 2024 For A Weekend Of History, Culture, And Fun

11 Jul 2023

Metropolitan Manila or Manila is the capital of Philippines and a burgeoning Asian Metropolis. The city carries a legacy dating back centuries and was ruled by many countries including Spain, America, and Japan, all of which left behind a part of their culture in the city . Owing to the various places to visit in Manila like churches and historical monuments, the city is also called the ‘Rome of the East’. But the city has more than just history; there are beautiful parks, amusement parks, and other tourist attractions just waiting to be explored. Here are some amazing places to visit in Manila you must explore.

25 Places To Visit In Manila In 2024

There are a plethora of places to visit in Manila. We have shortlisted 25 of them based on popularity and taking into account the preferences of a variety of travelers such as solo backpackers, couples, and more. Take a look:

• Rizal Park:  Pay Ode To The National Hero
• Fort Santiago:  Imposing Structure
• Manila Ocean Park:  Meet The Marine Life
• San Agustin Church:  Spectacular Baroque Architecture
• National Museum Complex:  Place For History Lovers
• Malacanang Palace:  Incredibly Beautiful
• Manila Zoo:  Watch The Wildlife
• Manila Cathedral:  Intricate Woodwork
• Arroceros Forest Park:  Adore The Beauty
• Star City Amusement Park:  Try The Adventurous Rides
• Republiq:  Buzzing Nightlife
• Manila Baywalk:  Witness The Skyscrapers
• Divisoria Market:  Bargain Like A Pro
• Casa Manila:  Explore The fascinating Facts
• Robinsons Place Mall:  For All The Shopaholics
• Greenbelt Chapel:  Attractive Tourist Spot
• Paco Park:  Relax Around
• Chinese Cemetery: Architectural Marevl
• Bahay Tsinoy:  Tour Around
• Money Museum:  Treasure Trove
• Binondo:  Oldest Chinatown
• Ayala Museum:  Know The History
• Bonifacio Global City:  Entertaining Fusion
• Mall Of Asia:  Shop Around
• San Agustin Museum:  A Place For History Enthusiasts

1. Rizal Park: Pay Ode To The National Hero

Image Source

Rizal Park is the city’s biggest public park and is very dear to the Filipinos due to its historical significance. It is one of the best places to visit in Manila, Philippines . The Park is the location where their national hero, Jose Rizal, was executed. Today, the park is spread over 140 acres and has beautiful ornamental gardens, statues of historical figures, a Central Lagoon with musical fountains, as well as an Orchidarium. Also locally known as Luneta Park, is one of the top tourist spots in Manila for couples who love to stroll in its pretty avenues and lawns. For the best Manila attractions and tours , take a free guided walk tour. A lot of them start from the park.

Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila Entry fee: INR 26 Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM

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2. Fort Santiago: Imposing Structure

Fort Santiago is one of the first places to visit Metro Manila. The fort was completed in 1593 and is located in the ancient walled city of Intramuros. The stone walls of the fort have many structures including the famous Rizal Shrine which is dedicated to Rizal. The fort has seen history shape the city right from the Spanish conquest to World War II. It is one of the best tourist places in Manila with friends as not only is the area full of history but its ancient architecture make for great photography spots and is also included in the Manila sightseeing of every traveler. This is one of the top  tourist spots in Manila.

Location: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila Entry fee: INR 100 Timings: 8 AM – 9 PM

3. Manila Ocean Park: Meet The Marine Life

One of the best places to visit in Manila is the Manila Ocean Park. The park has so many attractions that even a day at the park won’t be enough! The highlight is the Oceanarium which has more than 14,000 animals across 270 marine species, making it one of the biggest aquariums in the world. There are also exciting animal shows like the Seal Lion Show, Penguin Show, and the All the Bird Show which will amaze you! Some other interesting exhibits include the World of Creepy Crawlies, Birds of the Prey Kingdom, and the Sharks and Ray Encounter. This is among the best places to visit in Manila with friends.

Location: 666 Behind Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila Entry fee: INR 526 onwards Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM

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4. San Agustin Church:  Spectacular Baroque Architecture

The San Agustin Church is one of the most important tourist spots in Manila. The Church is the oldest church in the Philippines, and though initially built-in 1586, it has seen many renovations including the latest one in 2013. The church is a National Landmark as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its striking Baroque architecture. The church is still in use and if lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of a traditional mass or wedding in progress! it is indeed one of the most visited tourist spots in Manila.

Location: General Luna St, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila Entry fee: INR 132 Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

5. National Museum Complex: Place For History Lovers

It is one of the top places to visit in Manila for kids . The Filipinos are incredibly proud of their history and heritage, and you can see that all on display at the National Museum Complex in Manila. The museum complex has no entry fees because the government wants everyone from across the world to see the history of the Philippines in one of the best places to visit in Manila alone without being bored! The complex includes the National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People and the Planetarium.

Location: P. Burgos Drive, Rizal Park, Manila Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)

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6. Malacanang Palace:  Incredibly Beautiful

It is one of the best places to visit in Manila for couples . Officially the residence of the President of Philippines, the Malacanang Palace does not often feature among the top tourist spots in Manila. Yet, it is an incredibly beautiful place steeped in history, and it is definitely among the best places to visit in Manila for free! The Palace was built in the 18th century in the Bahay na Bato and Neoclassical style. The palace is well-maintained, and visitors can visit the Presidential Museum and Library for a better understanding of Manila since its independence.

Location: Malacañan Palace, JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

7. Manila Zoo:  Watch The Wildlife

Hippopotamus, Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Malayan Civet, Monitor Lizard, and many more animals can be seen at the Manila Zoo. The zoo is among the best places to see in Manila if you are traveling with kids. There are over 500 animals from over 100 species. Within the campus of the zoo, there is also a Botanical Garden and Arboretum to see a variety of plants that belong to the local ecology of the Philippines. It is an interesting stop, and you can easily spend an hour seeing all the animals.

Location: Adriatico St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila Entry fee: INR 132 Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

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8. Manila Cathedral: Intricate Woodwork

The Manila Cathedral has survived earthquakes and conquests for more than 400 years now! The Basilica was originally built in 1571 but has evolved, and the current structure is the eighth building! The cathedral is a stellar example of Neo-Romanesque architecture and is admired by architecture buffs from around the world and features among the Manila attractions for the top 10 list. The highlight of the cathedral is the enormous pipe organ and the high-vaulted ceiling with intricate woodwork. It is one of the best places to visit in Manila alone .

Location: Sto. Tomas, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM

9. Arroceros Forest Park: Adore The Beauty

Manila is notorious for its traffic jams and constant hustle bustle, but visitors can find refuge for a few hours in one of the most beautiful places in Manila – the Arroceros Forest Park. The Park is a small but dense forest and provides the much needed green lung space in the busy city. It has more than 60 tree species and over 8,000 plants that are now home to over ten different bird species. It is also one of the most romantic places in Manila, and you can find many couples take wedding photo shoots in the park! This is definitely one of the  great places to visit in Manila .

Location: Antonio Villegas St, 659 A Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila Timings: 7:30 AM – 6 PM

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10. Star City Amusement Park: Try The Adventurous Rides

The best thing to do after all the historical sightseeing is to let your hair down and enjoy the Star City, Amusement Park. The biggest amusement park in the country, it is also one of the best places to visit in Manila at night . The twinkly lights of the Ferris Wheel and the crazy lights and sounds of the rides and attractions make it one of the most interesting places in Manila. The park has attractions for all ages, but the best ones are the extreme rides including Star Frisbee. It also has a unique attraction, the Snow World where visitors can enjoy the experience of playing in the snow!

Location: Vicente Sotto St, Pasay, Metro Manila Entry fee: INR 645 Timings: 2 PM – 10:30 PM

11. Republiq:  Buzzing Nightlife

Visit one of the biggest and most popular clubs in Manilla for an extraordinary nightlife experience. Republiq is a Las Vegas-styled club and is known to host various extravagant events involving EDM and House genre music with DJs from around the world. It is the best place in Manila to hang out at night. If you’re looking for good places to visit in Manila for partying, then this is where you should come.

Location: Unit 8, Second Level, Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila Timings: Opened on Wed, Thurs, Fri

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12. Manila Baywalk:  Witness The Skyscrapers

Witnessing a romantic sunset at the Manila Baywalk should not be missed at all when you are in the Philippines. Stretching from the American Embassy down to the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Baywalk measure around 2 kms along the shore. You can find skyscrapers across the road, and at the Manila Yacht Club, one can relax at cafes, restaurants, and enjoy live street music performances too. You will have the time of your life here with friends and family.

Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila Entry fee: None Timings: 5 AM – 12:30 AM

13. Divisoria Market: Bargain Like A Pro

Image Credit: Timothy Albano

This is considered to be the Mother of all Markets in the city of Manila. This flea market lies exactly in the city’s heart, that is Chinatown. The bustling market has everything you’re looking for. The best part about this market is that you’ll get everything at really cheap prices. From shopping to eating, you’ll be overwhelmed by the variety that you’ll find here. When looking for souvenirs, do make a visit to this place.

Location: plaza sans luis complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines Timings:  7:00 am – 9:00 pm

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14. Casa Manila: Explore The Fascinating Facts

Image Credit: Jorge Láscar from Melbourne, Australia

This is a museum in the city of Intramuros that was built in the year 1980 by the architect, Imelda Marcos. The museum has been constructed in exquisite Spanish colonial architecture. This museum has been constructed as a replica to San Nicolas House that signified the colonial way of living of the Filipinos. There are awe-striking elements from the past that have been put on display here. If you’re a history buff, this place is a must-visit!

Location: plaza sans Luis complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

15. Robinsons Place Mall:  For All The Shopaholics

Image Credit: RioHondo

If you want to go on a shopping spree, then this mall is the place for you! Located just behind the well-known Philippine General Hospital, this mall is considered to be one of the most-visited places in the city of Manila. There’s a huge variety of branded showrooms in this mall where you can buy clothes and accessories. After a vigorous shopping session, you can go to the food court to satiate your cravings.

Location:  Pedro Gil St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines Timings: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

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16. Greenbelt Chapel:  Attractive Tourist Spot

Image Credit: Judgefloro

Located in Makati District, this place is for those who’d love to know about the religious aspects of Manila city. The construction of this chapel was completed in the year 1983. Apart from being one of the most religiously rich places, Greenbelt Chapel is also renowned for its architecture and is therefore counted amongst the most attractive buildings in the city.

Location: Ayala Center, Greenbelt Park, Legazpi Village, Makati, 1228 Metro Manila, Philippines

17. Paco Park:  Relax Around

Image Credit: Angelyn Marquez

This park is known for its lush greenery and is one of the best places you can come to if you’re seeking peace. The park was formerly called Cementerio General de Dilao when it was a cemetery built during the Spanish colonial period by the Dominicans. The park is not only a recreational spot for locals as well as tourists, it even holds major historical significance.

Location: Belen, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines Timings: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

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18. Chinese Cemetery: Architectural Marvel

Image Credit: David Stanley Wikimedia

Popular as “Millionaires’ Row”, the Chinese Cemetery is flanked by luxurious villas and stunning houses on a two-way street. The two or three-storeyed villas are actually mausoleums but they are also completely functional households. All adorned with gorgeous chandeliers, running water, kitchens, and toilets. Tour this place for cultural, architectural, and historical enlightenment.

Location: Manila, Philippines Entry Fee: NA Timings: Open 24/7

19. Bahay Tsinoy: Tour Around

Image Credit: Bahnfrend for Wikimedia

Find this on the Cabildo Streets in the City of Intramuros. This is an age-old museum housed within the insides of the Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage center building, that holds the history and contributions of the Chinese in the past life. Tour this place to know more about porcelain collections.

Suggested Read: Mindoro Island: A Little Guide To Philippines’ Best-Kept Secret

20. Money Museum: Treasure Trove

Image Credit: Vavaniada for Wikimedia

The Museum is a literal treasure trove of ancient coins, banknotes, barter exchanges, bills, etc. Owned and run by the Central Bank of the Philippines. A favorite tourist hotspot of the city. The museum basically traces the history of the Philippines’ economy.

21. Binondo: Oldest Chinatown

Image Credit: patrickroque001 for Wikimedia

Famous as the world’s oldest Chinatown, Binondo is a district in Manila. It bustles with markets loaded with cozy shops of goldsmiths, bakeries, incense sticks, tea houses. It used to be a hub for Chinese trade and commerce governed by the Filipino-Chinese in the olden years.

Suggested Read: 10 Temples In Philippines You Can Visit To Correct Your Wrongs!

22. Ayala Museum: Know The History

Image Credit: Ayala Museum for Wikimedia

The Ayala Museum is a famous museum in Metro Manila that exhibits four floors of contemporary relics of Filipino culture, history, art & majestic museums. The major highlight of the repository is the portrayal of the 60 different magnificent dioramas, all trace the country’s historical facts. The place is ideal for history enthusiasts, and those who love the explore ancient facts & stories. When here you can also attend workshops, lectures, exhibitions on photography, writing, and art.

Location: Manila, Philippines Entry Fee: Free. Timings: Open 24/7

23. Bonifacio Global City: Entertaining Fusion

Image Credit: Mjdiamzon for Wikimedia

Popular as the Global City or The Fort is a financial, lifestyle, and business district. The city was formerly a military base that was later converted to a well-planned neighborhood. It is now a major place for shopping, entertainment, dining, tourism. Here you’ll also see rocketing skyscrapers, classic hotels, world-class museums. In all, the place is a perfect fusion of everything a tourist generally seeks for.

Location: Manila, Philippines Timings: Open 24/7

Suggested Read: 7 Best Hostels In Cebu: For Those Looking For A Calm And Comfy Stay

24. Mall Of Asia: Shop Around

Image Credit: Patrickroque001 for Wikimedia

Situated in the Pasay district of Metro Manila, The Mall of Asia is the fourth largest mall in the Philippines. The Mall has four sections- The main mall, the Entertainment Mall, the south and north parking buildings that are connected through walkways. The walkways cater to various options for entertainment, leisure, shopping, etc.

25. San Agustin Museum: A Place For History Enthusiasts

Image Credit: Rmdelossantos for Wikimedia

Situated near the San Augustin Church, The San Museum is a gorgeous museum that treasures religious pieces of art portraying the rich history of Catholicism. It is a UNESCO world heritage site whose stunning architecture attracts visitors. The gallery and the hallways are all filled with paintings of the saints. The tourists will also witness sculptures and other art pieces from all around the world. The most popular relics include botanical drawings, antique furniture, ceramics, liturgical goods, etc.

Further Read: A Shopaholic’s Guide To Shopping in Philippines

Now that you know there are so many amazing and interesting places to visit in Manila, when will you book your Asia trip ? Don’t linger. Plan your vacation in advance and score exciting deals and discounts. Except for offseason, accommodation and airfare are expensive in Manila. So, make your choice accordingly.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Manila

Is it safe to travel internationally in the upcoming weeks or months?

The tourism industry is slowly reopening, and you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more if travelling in a small group while following all the guidelines released. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure.

Where can I go to Manila with friends?

You can go to Maginhawa Street, Greenhills Shopping Center, and Rizal Park with friends and even family. The places are just the right tourist spots that you must explore with your loved ones.

What is Manila famous for?

The city of the Philippines, Manila is known for its markets, parks, museums, etc. There are various places in Manila that tourists can explore.

Where can I go for free in Manila?

There are a number of free activities you can indulge yourself in when you are in the city of Manila. Some of them are visiting the National Museum, taking a language course, walking around Luneta Park, exercising in UP Diliman, and more.

Is December rainy season in Manila?

Yes. December is a dry season. The dry season starts in late November and ends in May. The rainy season starts in June and lasts till October. September and October are often the typhoons season in the Philippines.

What is the coldest month in Manila?

January happens to be the coldest month in Manila with a temperature of 78°F (26°C) with the most daily sunshine hours at 9 in April. May is the hottest month in Manila with an average temperature of 85°F (30°C) and the wettest month is August with an average of 140mm of rain.

Does it snow in Manila?

Manila does not experience snow. The Philippines is a warm region and does not have a very cold temperature or experience of snow. However, if that happens, it could be a large effect of climate change.

Is Manila safe for tourists?

Like many other countries, the Philippines has pockets where more violence tends to occur and areas that are generally considered safe. There is an active travel warning for the Philippines, but only for some regions. Most other parts of the nation are generally considered as safe as other places in Southeast Asia.

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21 AMAZING Things to Do in Manila (Written By a Local)

The capital of the Philippines, Manila is a bustling metropolis filled with commercial business districts, diverse neighborhoods, and historical sites. While Manila isn’t on top of everyone’s list when planning a visit to the Philippines , you’ll find that there are many interesting sights and things to do in Manila as well!

Whether you’re a tourist here for layover or a local looking for more things to do on a weekend, here is our guide to the best Manila tourist spots that you can visit.

1. Intramuros

2. rizal park, 3. national museum complex, 4. food crawl at binondo, 5. stroll around quiapo, 6. shop ’til you drop, 7. explore bonifacio global city, 8. enjoy a gondola ride at venice grand canal mall, 9. see marine animals at manila ocean park, 10. ayala museum, 11. lakbay museo, 12. dessert museum, 13. eat at the local fast food, 14. experience eating in a seafood dampa, 15. food crawl in poblacion, 16. visit the artistic hub cubao expo, 17. shop at weekend markets, 18. enjoy thrilling rides at star city, 19. watch the sunset at manila bay, 20. experience the nightlife, 21. go on a day trip from manila, luxury stay, mid-range stay, budget stay, how to get around, travel tips when visiting manila, what to read next:.

Intramuros is one of the best Manila tourist spots and an important historical landmark in the whole country. During the Spanish occupation in the 1500s, Intramuros was synonymous to the City of Manila itself. It was the seat of the government & political power of the Spanish government. In 2018, it was declared as a National Cultural Treasure .

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Today, the “Walled City” is home to universities, commercial establishments, and of course heritage sites. Some of its noteworthy attractions include Fort Santiago , Manila Cathedral , Walls of Intramuros (Puerta de Santa Lucia), San Agustin Church and Museum , and Casa Manila .

You can explore Intramurous via a do-it-yourself walking tour or bamboo bike tour via Bambike Ecotours. Start your tour from the Intramuros Visitor’s Center where you’ll be given a map of the structures inside the city.

There is also a night tour offered at Intramuros called Intramuros After Dark . This will let you see the old streets of the walled city at night and learn about not just historical facts but also urban legends such as ghost huntings. It’s perfect for those who want to see a different side to the old city.

Click here to book a tour in Intramuros via Klook.

Just a short walk from Intramuros, you will find Rizal Park (also known as Luneta Park) — also one of the best places to visit in Manila. It is a sprawling green oasis that pays tribute to the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

At this park, you will find the iconic monument of Dr. Jose Rizal. You’ll also find a fountain famous for its light show at night, tree-lined pathways and gardens, an open-air concert hall, large stadiums, and observatories, as well as shops and food kiosks.

Continue your tour of old Manila at the National Museum Complex. Suitable for those who love art, culture, and history, it is one of the best Manila tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss.

Established in 1901, National Museum is at the forefront of research, preservation, and promotion of the country’s cultural and natural heritage. It features a wide range of artworks, artifacts, and natural specimens that you can find in the country.

The museum has four main buildings, each with its own distinct collection.

• The National Museum of Fine Arts houses a collection of Philippine art from the 17th to the 20th century, including works by renowned artists like Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo.
• The National Museum of Anthropology houses archaeological and ethnographic exhibits, including artifacts from the pre-colonial era of the Philippines.
• The National Museum of Natural History features exhibits on the country’s flora and fauna, including a collection of preserved specimens and interactive exhibits.
• Finally, the National Planetarium is dedicated to the study of astronomy and space exploration.

Did you know that you can find the oldest chinatown in the world in Manila? Binondo was established in the 1950s as a place of commerce for Chinese traders. Today, it’s one of the most popular foodie spots in the city.

Some of the must-eats in Binondo include kutsay fried dumplings from Dong Bei Dumplings , fresh lumpia at New Po Heng , and hand-stretched noodles from Lan Zhou La Mien . Also don’t forget to bring home tikoy, hopia, and other pastries from Eng Bee Tin!

You may also want to consider visiting Binondo during Chinese New Year for the festivities.

Click here to book a Binondo food tour via Klook.

If you want to have an authentic exploration of the gritty street of Manila, there’s no better place to be than Quiapo. It’s known as the “Old Downtown of Manila” and it’s currently a local marketplace bargaining hunt.

Here in Quiapo, you’ll find the Quiapo Church , which is the center of devotion for the Black Nazarene. Surrounding the church are different stalls selling fresh fruits, street food, and other items. Interestingly, it’s also where you can find local fortune tellers and vendors who sell anting-anting (talisman) and other items used in traditional healing and witchcraft.

Other interesting points in Quiapo include the Quinta Market , Muslim Town , Bahay Nakpil-Bautista , Maglaqui Talyer , Hidalgo Street , and San Sebastian Basilica .

You can do explore Quiapo on your own. For those who want a guided tour, check out Bukas Quiapo Tours . It’s a community-based group that supports the community by offering tours to Quiapo, which includes food tasting of local dishes including halal food from the local Muslim community as well.

Shopping malls are some of the best Manila tourist attractions that you can visit.

Bonifacio High Street is an open-air shopping complex with plenty of shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces where you can relax and hang out.

The Mall of Asia in Pasay City is considered the largest shopping mall in the Philippines, with numerous local and international stores, restaurants including buffets, and cafes. At the bayside, you can also find fun rides such as a large ferris wheel that offers a scenic view of the surrounding bayside.

Greenbelt Mall offers a mix of high-end retail stores and shops, including both local and international brands. As it is located in the business district of Makati City, it usually caters to middle and upper-middle class clientele. It is also linked to Landmark, Glorietta, and SM Makati which features budget- to medium-priced stalls.

Tiendesitas is also a worthwhile shopping destination to visit. It is home to over 450 merchants selling specialty goods from the regions of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It also has various homegrown restaurants where you can try indigenous cuisine.

For bargain shopping, the best options are Divisoria and Greenhills Shopping Center. Divisoria is a local favorite because it sells everyday items for cheap. On the other hand, Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan offers high-end brands, as well as stalls selling modern and locally made clothing, jewelry such as pearls, arts and crafts, and local products from provinces that you can purchase as souvenir/pasalubong. Greenhills Shopping Center is also famous for their tech stores, which sell phones, laptops, and cameras at cheaper price than mall prices.

One of the best things to do in Manila is exploring Bonifacio Global City (or BGC). BGC is a modern-day business district located in Taguig City, home to modern commercial buildings, shopping malls, restaurants, and bars. It also has lot of open spaces, making it a favorite place for those who just want to hang out or who want to enjoy a day off with their pets.

BGC is also one of the safest places in the metro, so it’s a great option for a homebase.

There’s a lot of things you can do in BGC. See the modern architecture and find a good restaurant or cafe to eat. Catch all the street murals scattered throughout the city. Visit interesting attractions such as the Mind Museum and Venice Grand Mall. At night, stop by Mercato, a night market where you can get delicious local food.

One of the most fun things to do in Manila is going on a gondola ride at Venice Grand Canal Mall. Venice Grand Mall is a shopping mall reminiscent of the romantic Italian City. Located in the McKinley Hill township in Taguig City, this one-of-a-kind mall boasts an architectural design inspired by Venetian landmarks, complete with picturesque canals and gondola rides and a piazza where you can feed birds. It also has various restaurants and cafes located along the canal, so you can enjoy good food with a view.

Aside from these, you’ll find elegant storefronts and charming boutiques featuring local and international brands.

One of the most interesting Manila tourist spots is the Manila Ocean Park. It’s considered the first world-class marine theme park in the Philippines.

The best feature of Manila Ocean Park is its Oceanarium , which is home to 14,000 sea creatures indigenous to the Philippines and other countries in Southeast Asia. It also offers various activities such as helmet diving, sharks and sting rays encounter, and mermaid swimming.

Manila Ocean Park is a popular option for casual tours, as well as educational tours, family trips, and even romantic getaways.

Book a discounted ticket to Manila Ocean Park via Klook.

Or book an overnight stay at Hotel H2O inside the complex, where you can sleep in a hotel room with aquarium walls!

If you’d like to delve more into the rich culture of the Philippines, you can visit the Ayala Museum in Makati. It features ethnographic and archaeological displays on Filipino culture, art, and history.

Some of the interesting things you can see in Ayala Museum include ancient ceramics from bartering with China and other Southeast Asian countries and more than 1000 gold objects from local cultures before the colonization of the country in the 16th century.

Lakbay Museo is a newly opened museum located in S Maison at Conrad Manila, Pasay. It lets you see the best of the Philippines in 1-2 hours.

Here you can learn more about the Philippines including its regions, culture, festival, and food staples. It also offers unique experiences such as taking a “lava walk” in Mayon Volcano and swimming in a giant rice bowl.

This museum appeals to not just the history buffs but the younger crowd as well, with its IG-worthy displays and interactive stations.

Click here to book a ticket to Lakbay Museo via Klook.

Arguably more of an entertainment platform than a museum, the Dessert Museum is the most scrumptious museum you can find in Manila. It features themed rooms depicting specific sweets and desserts. Samples are also given along the way. It’s ideal for kids or people who are young at heart, especially those who’d like to amp their IG feed.

Guests in Dessert Museum are given 2 hours to explore inside. After the tour, there’s an option to buy various sweets, supplies & accessories.

Click here to book a ticket to Dessert Museum via Klook.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Harvard Uy de Baron (@alwayshungryph)

Ask Filipinos for a suggestion on where to eat and they’ll immediately answer with “Jollibee.” Jollibee is a fast food chain and it’s what McDonalds is to the US. Jollibee is more than a restaurant, it’s part of the local culture. A lot of people grew up with fond memories of having family meals in Jollibee, which is a huge reason why it is such a beloved brand.

The food in Jollibee will also give you a glimpse about Filipino cuisine . Try out the Chicken Joy, the sweet-style spaghetti, and the aloha burger which has a burger patty and pineapple slices.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melvin Burac (@gnobong)

A dampa is a local seafood market. Here you can buy fresh seafood in market stalls and have it cooked for you in a restaurant for a fee. If you don’t want the trouble of buying the ingredients yourself (which, btw is really fun), you can simply ask the restaurant staff to do it for you. Ala carte non-seafood items are also available.

Eating in a dampa is a unique local experience and will allow you to appreciate the bountiful catch in the local seas.

Dampa can be found in various locations in Manila including Macapagal in Pasay and Daang Hari in Las Pinas . There are also “high-end” dampas nowadays including Seascape Village in Pasay.

Poblacion is a trendy neighborhood in Makati City. Visit here for a Poblacion food crawl and discover various local and international restaurants serving good food, ranging from cheap Asian street food to authentic Indian curry houses, Spanish restaurants, and more.

It’s also one of the best places to experience Manila night life. From late afternoon to past midnight, the streets of Poblacion are alive with laid-back restaurants and bars, roofdeck bars offering a view of the city, and even videoke places for friends who love to sing together.

Whether you’re looking for a place to eat, hang out, or meet fellow travelers such as yourself, Poblacion is a great place to visit in Manila.

Formerly known as “ Marikina Shoe Expo ,” Cubao Expo is a unique shopping complex that serves as a haven for artists, collectors, and vintage enthusiasts. You’ll find various shops, ranging from retro clothing boutiques and vinyl record stores to antique shops and art galleries.

Aside from its art and culture vibe, the complex is also known for its vibrang nightlife, with various bars and live music venues showcasing local talents.

Visiting Cubao Expo is one of the best things to do in Manila especially for those interested in arts, crafts, and a taste of Manila’s alternative culture.

There are a few weekend markets in Manila where you can enjoy a good breakfast or brunch, shop for local arts and crafts, and buy fresh produce.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salcedo Community Market (@salcedomarket)

Salcedo Market is a weekend market held every Saturday at Salcedo Village in Makati City. Here you can buy a variety of cuisines, including specialty dishes from different provinces in the Philippines. They also sell organic fruits and vegetables, as well as plants and other items.

The prices here are more expensive compared to ordinary local markets, but you’re guaranteed to love the cozy & laid-back vibe in this place.

Similar to Salcedo Market, Legazpi Market is a weekend market in Makati City open on Sundays.

For a more authentic vibe, visit the AANI Weekend Market in Arca South, Taguig City. Every Saturday and Sunday, it comes alive with numerous sellers selling local dishes, sweets, and pasalubongs; fresh fruits and vegetables; arts and crafts; and clothing. You will also find different fruiting trees and plants, perfect for plantitos and plantitas!

Aside from these, there are also weekend markets that open from late afternoon to midnight. Greenfield Weekend Market features a large green space and several food stalls. It’s also close to other restaurants and bars if you want to continue hanging out. Mercanto Centrale is a famous night market that can be found in several locations including Makati, Pasig, Intramuros, and Rizal Park.

Star City is an amusement park located within the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex in Pasay City, offering over 30 rides and attractions for both kids and adults.

Families will love the Grand Carousel and Giant Ferris Wheel, while those who love more adventurous rides can go on the roller coast ride called Star Flyer, the Seahorse Viking, and the Jungle Splash. Other notable attractions include the Snow World, where you can experience snow; Dinosaur Alive, for those interested in prehistoric animals; and Gabi ng Lagim, for horror fans.

Star City is open from Thursday to Sunday.

One of the best things to do in Manila that you shouldn’t miss is watching sunsets! Manila Bay in particular is famous for sunset watching.

There are plenty of spots good for sunset watching. Find a good spot along the baywalk in Mall of Asia or ride the ferries wheel for a fantastic view of the surrounding and the sun setting over the ocean. Or take a walk along Roxas Boulevard and enjoy a drink in one of the bars in the area, such as Sofitel Manila’s Sunset Bar or Bayleaf Hotel’s Sky Deck View Bar , which is on a rooftop within Intramuros.

There are a few neighborhoods in Manila famous for their nightlife. Manila , Poblacion in Makati City, Tomas Morato in Quezon City, and Molito Complex in Alabang in particular are known for their late-night restaurants, bars, dance clubs, and live music venues.

There are lots of interesting Manila tourist spots, but you’ll find more options outside the city. Thankfully, there are plenty of day trip destinations form Manila .

You can go on a 2-hour drive to Tagaytay City , where you can dine with a view of Taal Lake. Or have a beach trip to some of the best Batangas beaches about 2-3 hours away. If you want to unwind, Laguna has several natural hot spring resorts that can help you relax and rejuvenate, as well as other nature attractions such as waterfalls and caves.

Here are some Manila day tours that you can book via Klook:

• Tagaytay day tour
• Pagsanjan Falls day tour
• Villa Escudero resort tour and waterfall dining

You can also book tours in and around Manila via Abraham Manila . Use our promocode TARALETS10 to get 10% discount on tours!

Where to stay in Manila

There are numerous Manila hotels , ranging from luxurious 5-star accommodations to budget inns and hostels. Here are your best options:

• Peninsula Manila . A 5-star hotel located in Makati. This is a great choice if you’re looking for a luxury stay in proximity with shopping malls and other commercial establishments in this city.
• Hotel H2O . A 4-star hotel located within the Manila Ocean Park complex, right off Manila Bay. This hotel offers a unique experience — you can book a room with an in-room aquarium, which is popular with families and couples. Other rooms offer bay views.

• Park Inn by Radisson North Edsa . One of our favorite hotel staycations in Manila. Park Inn by Radisson North Edsa is conveniently connected to SM North, which makes it close to a lot of restaurants and shops. Read about our stay here .
• Seda BGC . A four-star hotel located at the heart of BGC, Taguig. Right next to Bonifacio High Street, this business hotel is just a stone’s throw away from restaurants, cafes, shops, and other leisure establishments. Read about our stay here .
• Tropicana Suites . Located in the lively district of Malate. It offers 100 modern rooms. The best feature of Tropicana Suites is its location: it’s close to cultural landmarks, malls, dining hotspots, and even the airport.
• Abraham Manila . An affordable hostel located in Poblacion, Makati. They are walking distance to restaurants, bars, and shops. They also offers tours in and around Manila. Read about our stay here .
• Z Hostel . A popular choice for budget travelers in Makati. It offers private rooms and dorms. It has a rooftop bar, which is a great place to hang out in at night. It also has a 24/7 cafe that offers a good breakfast buffet.

Manila has plenty of public transportation options including the MRT and LRT train systems, buses, jeepneys, and tricycles. The MRT train station goes along the length of EDSA, while LRT is useful for visiting places in old Manila such as Intramuros.

Go on a public transport if you have ample of time. Otherwise, it’s best to just get a taxi. Online booking apps available in Manila include Grab , as well as Angkas and Joyride (for motorcycle rides).

Manila is generally a safe place. However, pickpockets are still common so it’s important to avoid seedy areas and keep watch on your belongings.

Expect traffic! Most of the population in the Philippines reside in Manila, so expect traffic particularly during rush hours (early morning and 5PM to 8PM on weekdays) and every Monday and Friday when there is an in- and outgoing of employees from nearby provinces. If you’re here on a short layover, it’s best to stick to attractions near your airport so you don’t miss your flight.

That concludes our guide to the best places to see and things to do in Manila Philippines! Do you have other suggestions for the best Manila tourist spots? If so, let us hear about them in the comments below!

Planning a trip to the Philippines? Check out these guides!

• First-Timers Guide to the Philippines
• Best Places to Visit in the Philippines
• Things You Need to Know Before Visiting the Philippines
• Is the Philippines Safe to Visit?
• Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations in the Philippines
• Suggested 2 Weeks Itinerary in the Philippines
• Suggested 3 Weeks Itinerary in the Philippines
• Philippines Packing List
• Must-Try Food in the Philippines
• 21+ Top Adventures in the Philippines

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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Top 10 things to do when traveling to shimla: shimla travel guide, the ultimate paris travel guidelines for first timers | top attractions & things to do.

Top 27 Places to visit and things to do in Manila, Philippines

Who doesn’t love to visit the world’s great destinations? A travel lover always seeks new experiences and places to explore . For those travellers’ Manila, the capital of the Philippines is undoubtedly the best gateway.

I have been to the Philippines so many times, and Manila is certainly one of the most incredible destinations in Southeast Asia. Manila is the host of the culture and customs of the Philippines. Some love this buzzing city, and some hate it. But if you ask my advice, I would say embrace the chaos.

If you are a first-time visitor to Manila , it can be overwhelming for you to explore the city. Here, I have listed the 27 best places to visit & things to do in Manila to make your vacation plan easier. If you are one of those need a visa for visiting The Philippines, you can read how you can get a Philippines visa easily here.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Places to Visit & Things to Do in Manila

1. travel back in the old-world at intramuros.

Are you a history seeker? If you are, then Intramuros is the must-visit place for you. Known as the “Walled City”, it carries the history and architectural landmarks of the Spanish Era. A day trip is enough to go sightseeing these historical monuments and sculptures. 

Here are some of the best attractions in Intramuros that you must not miss.

Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago is one of the oldest and most impressive historical sites in Manila. Built-in 1571, this Hispanic stone castle was occupied by the British, Japanese, and Americans. Now it is a museum and the most visited tourist attraction. You can explore the place by sightseeing and walking.

Address: HXVC+M5V, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: 08:00 am to 07:00 pm

Entrance Fee: Adult PHP 75.00 (U$1.49)｜Student PHP 50.00 (U$0.99)

Manila Cathedral

Manila Cathedral is the religious centre of the Archdiocese of Manila. It is not only famous for its historical importance but its incredible intricate design. Make sure you take photos of this outstanding architecture.

Address: Beaterio St, Cabildo St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: 07:00 am to 05:00 pm

San Agustin Church and Museum

San Agustin Church is the UNESCO World Heritage Site. So you can imagine how much treasure you can explore here. The architecture design has a mixture of Spanish and Chinese styles. The church has been rebuilt many times after World War Ⅱ and the earthquakes.

Address: General Luna St, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: 08:00 am to 12:00 pm & 01:00 pm to 06:00 pm

Entrance Fee: Adult PHP 200.00 (U$3.99)｜Student PHP 160.00 (U$3.19)

2. Visit the Rizal Park, Dedicated to the Country’s National Hero

Located in the heart of Manila, Rizal Park is a tribute to the Philippines national hero, Jose Rizal. You’ll get to see several monuments and statues throughout the park, which are the symbols of Manila’s history. The park is placed in an outdoor garden, so you’ll also see several local flora and fauna here. If you keep your eyes open, you may also notice the Narra tree, the national tree of the Philippines.

Address: Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Daily 05:00 am to 09:00 pm

Entrance Fee: PHP 50.00 (U$0.99) per person

3. Manila Zoo

It’s well known that Manila Zoo is one of the most popular tourist spots in this city. But the question is why it’s tourists’ favourite attraction?

Well, the answer can not be given in a word. Spreading over a huge area, the zoo is not only the home of hundreds of species of mammals, birds, and reptiles but also houses the Wildlife Rescue Centre, Arboretum, Botanical Garden, and several kids’ Playgrounds.

In Manila Zoo, you will encounter the Asian Elephant, hippopotamus, the Great Philippine Eagle, Malayan Civet, Bengal Tiger, peafowl, herons, monitor lizard, goose, and so many other animals. The zoo is rich in flora and fauna.

Not only that, you can navigate the zoo with a rental boat. And before leaving the zoo check out its souvenir shops to pick up some memories back home. 

Address: M. Adriatico St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Everyday 08:00 am to 06:00 pm

Entrance Fee: Manila Residents: PHP 50.00  for adults & PHP 30.00 for children (below 4)｜Foreigners: PHP 100.00  for adults & PHP 60.00 for children (below 4)

4. Enjoy the Golden Hour at Manila Bay

Nothing is more beautiful than the breathtaking sunset view of Manila Bay. People come here for relaxation and tranquillity. The crazy shades of the sky will force you to take outstanding pictures. Make sure you bring your camera. There are many restaurants lining the waterfront, so you can have some snacks or drinks while enjoying this scenic view.

Address: Manila Bay

5. Robinsons Place Mall

If shopping is not your travel purpose, it’s okay! Robinsons Place Mall can change your purpose by influencing via its massive size and unique stores.

What? If you don’t trust my words, you can go by yourself and explore the seven-storeyed mall, Robinsons Place which is currently the largest serving mall in Manila.

Spread over 240,000 square meters, the mall has a surprising number of unique stores where you’ll get all the premium merchandise, cosmetics, fashion accessories, apparel, shoes, bags, and many more things. Not only that, the building has a plethora of entertainment facilities, a gaming zone for kids, and an enormous food court. 

So apart from shopping, you can have a family fun time here. And don’t worry about parking space, the mall has multi-storey parking. 

Address: Pedro Gil, cor M. Adriatico St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Sunday to Thursday 10:00 am to 09:00 pm｜Friday & Saturday 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

6. Arroceros Forest Park

Manila is the capital city of the Philippines so you must have seen many commercial sites and attractions in this city. Modern buildings are everywhere in Manila but Natural parks are very rare. 

Thanks to Arroceros Forest Park which is also known as “Manila’s last lung” because it’s the only Nature park in this city. It is the hidden gem of Manila. Whenever people of Manila get bored and frustrated from the hustle and bustle of the city and want a green environment, they come to Arroceros Forest Park.

The park has nearly 3500 trees of diverse species including acacia mangium, acacia auriculiformis, mahogany, molave, African tulip tree, eucalyptus, Indian tree, and many more. The park also has no shortage of fruit trees and ornamental plants such as avocado, santol, mango, macopa, and rare species of avifauna like pied fantail, brown shrike, long-tailed shrike, Pacific swallow, etc.

Address: 659 A Antonio Villegas St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Everyday 08:00 am to 05:00 pm

Entrance Fee: Free

7. Try Fresh Seafood at Dampa Seaside Market

After visiting the sunset at Manila Bay, it is worthwhile to have some fresh seafood. Just hit up the Dampa seaside market and take whatever seafood you like. Here you’ll get fresh crabs, shrimps, prawns, mussels, lobsters, and all sorts of fishes from tuna to blue marlin at a very reasonable price. Then take this seafood to a nearby restaurant and have it cooked according to your taste. You hardly can forget the taste of these delicious foods.

Address: Diosdado Macapagal Blvd, Pasay, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Daily 10:00 am to 10:30 pm

8. See the Ocean Life at Manila Ocean Park

One of Manila’s best attractions is the Manila Ocean Park. It is an aquarium-themed park that exhibits more than 14,000 aquatic animals, including stingrays, sharks, Jellyfishes, and many more. To have a great view of underwear life, you’ll get to walk through its 25-metre curved glass tunnel. The Oceanarium also offers a couple of educational tours to teach you about marine biodiversity and how to protect them.

Address: Quirino Grandstand, 666 Behind, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Daily 10:00 am to 06:00 pm

Entrance Fee: PHP 400.00 (U$7.99) per person

9. Malacañang Palace

There is no shortage of historical landmarks in Manila and Malacañang Palace is undoubtedly one of the greatest historical landmarks in this capital city. It’s an official residence and principal workplace of the President of the Philippines.

This beautiful building was built in the mid-eighteenth century, so it carries the neoclassical architectural style which is rare in the Philippines. But only one part of this complex is open for public visits and that is the Museo ng Malacañang or the museum inside the building. This museum showcases the history of the Philippines and its government via several artefacts and pictures.

Apart from this, the complex also has several beautiful gardens, Kalayaan Hall, an American-era guest house, and a golf course. 

Address: Malacañan Palace, JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila

Opening Hour: Monday to Friday 08:00 am to 05:00 pm (closed on Saturday & Sunday)

10. Casa Manila

Intramuros is the city where most of the historical landmarks of Manila are situated. And Casa Manila is one of the historical landmarks in Manila that is located in Intramuros. It’s a stately museum in Manila that was built in 1980 by Imelda Marcos.

The building is a replica of San Nicolas House and shows the colonial lifestyle of the Filipinos during the Spanish colonisation. It’s a three-storeyed building that has several rooms named cuartos, comedor, sala, despacho, etc. All the rooms are finely decorated with period furniture that has come from Chinese and European.

You are not allowed to take pictures and touch any of these displays. 

Address: HXQG+V52 plaza sans luis complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00 am to 05:00 pm (closed on Monday)

Entrance Fee: PHP 75.00 for adults & PHP 50.00 for children

11. Bahay Tsinoy

Bahay Tsinoy is another museum that is located in the walled city of Intramuros. The museum is also known as the Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Center and showcases the documents and history of the ethnic Chinese lives, struggles, and their contribution to the Philippines. 

It’s the ideal attraction for history buffs as the museum shows the growth of the Philippines and how the Chinese influenced the Filipinos in several different aspects. Here you’ll see statues, mannequins, and portraits of different events that tell the story of Filipino-Chinese history and culture. 

Address: 32 Anda St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Tuesday to Sunday 01:00 pm to 05:00 pm (closed on Monday)

Entrance Fee: PHP 100.00 for adults & PHP 60.00 for students and children

12. Do Shopping at Divisoria

If you are good at bargaining, then head down to the Divisoria Market. Situated in the middle of Chinatown in Manila, the market is well-known as a crowded and chaotic place. You’ll get anything here from clothes, textiles, bags, accessories and electronics to household stuff, religious items, office supplies, fruits and vegetables, and toys. These products are cheap, but you just need to know how to bargain. And those who do not like crowds and busy streets avoid the place.

Address: 557 M. De Santos St, San Nicolas, Manila, 1010 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Daily 07:00 am to 09:00 pm

13. Paco Park and Cemetery

Paco Park is one of the most popular landmarks in Manila not only for locals but for tourists as well. It also has historical significance for being the cemetery during the Spanish colonial period.

The cemetery was known as the Cementerio General de Dilao and it was built by the Dominicans to bury the Spanish elites. Now the park has turned into a great tourist attraction because of its beautiful surroundings and lush greenery.

Paco Park is so beautiful that it is often used as a wedding, events, and party venue. Not only that, many music concerts and live band performances take place here. 

The park also houses a shrine that is dedicated to Dr José Rizal and a Roman Catholic Chapel dedicated to St. Pancratius.

Address: HXJQ+99M, Belen, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Everyday 06:00 am to 05:00 pm

Entrance Fee: PHP 10.00 per person

14. Explore the Amazing Architecture, Art, and History at the National Museum

Located next to Rizal Park, the National Museum of the Philippines is a vast area with four main complexes. It offers you a rich collection of art, history, anthropology, biology, and zoology. The museum galleries also contain the cultural heritage of the country.

Here you’ll get to see the Fine Arts of renowned Filipino painters of the 19th and 20th centuries. “Spoliarium” by Juan Luna is the largest and most famous painting of this museum.

Address: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00 am to 12:00 pm & 01:00 pm to 04:00 pm

15. Money Museum

Money Museum is one of the tourist hotspots in Manila that showcases the transformation of money in the Philippines over time. On the 3rd January 1999, the museum was founded by the Central Bank of the Philippines as a part of the 50 years celebration of the bank. Since then the museum has become the most popular tourist attraction in the city.

The museum has several galleries namely the Pre-Hispanic Period, Spanish Period, Colonial Period, Revolutionary Period, the American Regime, Japanese Occupation, and the present Republican Period. And all these sections exhibit the rare collection of money of the Philippines such as gorgeous gold barter rings, envelope-sized banknotes, vintage circus-designed paper money, piloncitos, and the silver dos Mundos( the rarest coin).

Temporarily closed

Address: HX6Q+J2V, Ocampo St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Monday to Friday 09:00 am to 04:00 pm (closed on Saturday & Sunday)

16. Quiapo Church

Formerly known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, Quiapo Church is one of the oldest and most admirable Catholic Churches in Manila. This church is so popular among the devotees as well as tourists because of the giant statue of Black Nazarene .

It is believed that the Black Nazarene is a miraculous statue which is the black image of Jesus Christ holding a cross in a kneeling posture. It is the principal structure of this church and it is carved with wood and ivory.

Thousands of believers come to this church only to watch this miracle statue and attend the feast of Black Nazarene. The festival is held on the 9th of January and it’s believed that the participants of this festival will get rid of their past sins. Apart from this, every Friday, the church host a novena to gather the devotees and attend the prayer meeting together. 

Address: 391, Quiapo, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila

17. Don’t Miss Halo-Halo

To get acquainted with any place, city or county, you must visit the local food market. And your vacation in Manila would be incomplete if you miss its famous dessert Halo-halo. It is a sweet dish made with ube ice cream, shaved coconut meat, fruit, jelly, sweet beans, sweetcorn, leches flan, and ice. 

You can get Halo-halo anywhere in the city, from street vendors to expensive restaurants. The best places to get Halo-halo in Manila are Milky Way Café , Kabigting’s Halo-halo , and Razon’s Halo-halo, but if you have a budget problem, head to Chowking .

Milky Way Café : Milkyway, 900 Antonio Arnaiz Ave, Makati, 1200 Metro Manila

Kabigting’s Halo-halo : TDK Bldg, Congressional Ave, Bago Bantay, Quezon City, 1105 Metro Manila

Razon’s Halo-halo : 790 A Maria Clara St, Quezon City, 1114 Metro Manila

18. Take Pictures with Life-Size Toy Collection at Yexel’s Toy Museum

Are you a fan of Star Wars or Marvel heroes?  Yexel’s Toy Museum will give you a chance to take pictures with the life-size toys of your favourite heroes. The museum offers an extensive collection of toys, including Barbie Dolls, Disney cartoons, and Movie figures. The most famous life-size toys are Iron man suits, Star Wars, Simpsons, and Optimus Prime.

Address: 52 Sampaguita Rd, Las Pinas, 1740 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Daily 10:00 am to 05:00 pm

Entrance Fee: PHP 300.00 (U$5.99) per person

19. Star City Amusement Park

Whatever you do in Manila but don’t miss the Star City, Amusement Park . I repeat, don’t miss Star City, Amusement Park! Whether you think it’s a word of caution or a piece of advice. Just don’t you dare to miss it.

Star City is the biggest amusement park not only in Manila but in the Philippines as well. This air-conditioned amusement park is capable of entertaining people of all ages and suitable for all weather. 

The park has over 30 crazy rides and attractions to entertain you and among them, Pirate Adventure, Snow World, Dungeon of Terror, Gabi ng Lagim, and Time Tunnel are prominent attractions.

But nothing can match the high Ferris wheel which is the star attraction of this amusement park. This Ferris wheel will give a terrific view of the city and it becomes more magical at night. 

Address: Star City, Roxas Blvd, CCP, Pasay, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Thursday to Sunday 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm (closed on Monday to Wednesday)

Entrance Fee: PHP 80.00 for adults & PHP 64.00 for senior citizens｜Rides-All-You-Can (entrance included): PHP 490.00 for adults & PHP 357.00 for senior citizens

20. Jeepney Rides

One of the most interesting things to do in Manila is Jeepney Riding . Jeepney is the most common and popular public transport in Manila. If you want to be friends with locals, Jeepney rides can be a great way. 

These Jeepneys or jeeps were initially produced by the U.S military to use during the Second World War. From that time, these iconic and traditional Jeepneys were used as public transport in the Philippines. 

The most unique and attractive part of this jeepney is its decoration with colourful ornaments. And the ornaments showcase pop culture and Pinoy architecture.

21. Visit World’s First Chinatown Binondo

Established in 1594 by the Spanish government, Binondo is considered the world’s first Chinatown. The actual vibrant and variegated business of Manila is here. Make sure you come to Binondo with an empty stomach because you’ll get a lot of mouth-watering Chinese food to eat.

Address: Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila

Escolta Street

You can’t complete your Manila trip without visiting Escolta Street. Escolta is the hotspot of commerce, finance, and trade for all types of businesses. Clothes, foods, or restaurants, no matter what you are searching for, this place contains all of them.

Maybe you come with an empty stomach at Binondo, but surely you have to go back with full. Binondo is the place where you’ll find tasty and affordable Chinese eateries at almost every corner. You can’t leave Binondo without trying Filipino-Chinese signature dishes, including mami (noodle soup), lumpiang Shanghai (egg roll with meat, fish, and vegetables), and hopia (bean-filled pastry).

22. The Nightlife of Manila

Filipinos are passionate about singing and dancing and the Nightlife of Manila is the best evidence of that. No activities can match the excitement of the Nightlife of Manila. 

Manila is a metropolitan city and a prime spot for tourist destinations. Apart from this, the city has its popularity for dazzling and bustling nightlife. It has no shortage of clubs, pubs, and late-night restaurants to make the nightlife exciting and enjoyable.

The live music bars and busy clubs attract tourists all over the world to come here and enjoy the nightlife of this city. Here are some renowned nightspots where you can enjoy the nightlife of Manila. 

Bonifacio Global City

Bonifacio Global City or BGC is a commercial hub and “Home of Passionate Minds”. You’ll find here everything you want to make your nightlife dazzling and memorable. From high-quality lounges to super bars and cocktail clubs, there is no shortage of nightclubs, pubs and bars.

Furthermore, BGC also houses some of the most remarkable late-night restaurants and shopping malls where you can also opt. 

Black Market

Black Market club in Manila is one of the most popular and trendy nightclubs of this city. The club is designed like a warehouse and offers more than just a dancing club. 

The crowds are mostly young and a mixture of locals and tourists. The music is so vibrant here and a mix of hip-hop, drum & bass,  recent hits, and all-time classics. Though the club has no dress code, you probably should not wear flip-flops and singlets here as that’s not allowed. 

Address: 2723 Sabio St, Makati, 1233 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 pm to 04:00 am

The Aristocrat Restaurant

How about a barbecue night? Doesn’t it sound fun? There are many late-night restaurants in Manila that offer delicious barbecue and The Aristocrat Restaurant is the best of them.

The restaurant has the best chicken barbecue that you’ll not get anywhere else. You certainly can’t resist the aroma of freshly prepared food. At night the atmosphere of this restaurant becomes more enchanting and alluring. 

Address: 432, 1004 San Andres St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Everyday 06:00 pm to 01:00 am

23. Visit Weekend Markets

One of the most excellent things to do in Manila is visiting the Weekend Markets . Through these markets, you can get acquainted with local products, Philippine cuisine, and the warm-hearted people of the Philippines. 

Here are the two most incredible and popular weekend markets in Manila. 

Greenfield Weekend Market

Since March 2014, Greenfield Weekend Market has been making a great impact on the weekend markets in Manila. Its massive size attracts thousands of sellers and market goers to have an evening of hunting and bargaining.

The market is rich with unique products, food, vintages, art, music, and fortune tellers. Trust me, it could be a different kind of Saturday if you make a visit to the Greenfield Weekend Market.

Address: H3H3+JMM, Unnamed Road, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Friday to Sunday 02:00 pm to 12:00 am

Salcedo Saturday Market

To get fresh vegetarian or vegan-friendly products, you have to come to the Salcedo Saturday Market . The market is located in the heart of Makati City and unlike the crowded markets of Manila, it has an easy and relaxing atmosphere which is suitable for children as well. Here you’ll get over 50 suppliers and delicacies from all over the world. 

Address: Salcedo Village, Jaime C. Velasquez Park, Makati, Kalakhang Maynila

Opening Hour: Every Saturday 07:00 am to 02:00 pm

24. Greenbelt Chapel

Manila is a vibrant metropolitan city but that doesn’t mean you will not see religious aspects here. The Filipinos are very devoted to their religion and you will see that in their churches and chapels. 

Greenbelt Chapel is one of the most prominent and renowned religious centres in Manila not only because it’s religiously rich but because of its marvellous architecture and green surroundings. The chapel is also known as the Chapel of Santo Niño de Paz. 

Unlike the traditional Catholic chapels, this one is the most unique and impressive building in the city because of its pavilion-style architecture with thick enclosed walls. Apart from this, the chapel is also surrounded by a tranquil pond, spectacular sculptures, and green plants. 

Address: Ayala Center, Makati, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Monday to Saturday 07:00 am to 08:00 pm｜Sunday 07:00 am to 09:00 pm

25. Chinese Cemetery

To get the historical, architectural, and cultural enlightenment about the Philippines, you must visit the Chinese Cemetery . This cemetery was built to bury the wealthy Chinese during the Spanish colonial period. These Chinese citizens were refused to be buried in the traditional Catholic cemetery. So they built this Chinese Cemetery.

The cemetery is flanked by lavish villas which are actually mausoleums, at the same time, they are full of functioning households. Besides, the cemetery also houses Chong Hock Tong Temple, Martyrs Hall (Liat See Tong), Ruby Tower Memorial, and Carlos Palanca Memorial (Tan Quien Sien). 

Address: JXMM+2V7, Santa Cruz, Manila, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Everyday 09:00 am to 03:00 pm

26. Ayala Museum

The Philippines is rich in culture, history, and art. And the best way to explore this history, art, and culture is by visiting the museums.

Ayala Museum is one of the most extensive museums in Manila and it’s also a tourist hotspot. It is a four-floor museum that has a huge range of displays, showcasing the journey of the Filipinos from ancient history to the present day. 

This majestic museum attracts both locals and tourists as well through its magnificent exhibition of 60 incredible dioramas. The museum showcases Maritime Vessels, pre- Hispanic gold jewellery, Embroidered Multiples, Pioneers of Philippine Art, and many more. 

Not only that, but the Ayala Museum also houses an educational centre where you can attend lectures, discussions, workshops, etc. 

Address: Greenbelt Park, Makati Avenue, corner Dela Rosa Street, Ayala Center, Makati, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 am to 05:30 pm

Entrance Fee: PHP 425.00 for adults & PHP 300.00 for students and children

27. Rejuvenate yourself in the Spas of Manila

You probably get tired of doing lots of exciting and fun activities in Manila. Now it’s time to relax and rejuvenate yourself by simply taking a spa and massage. A therapeutic massage not only makes you relax and reenergize but its curative power benefits your mind and spirit.

So without waiting further, let’s find out the best spas in Manila where you’ll get the most satisfying services. 

I’M Onsen Spa

Located in the heart of Makati City, I’M Onsen Spa is the largest spa in the Philippines and the country’s first sento-style spa. 

The specialization of this spa is the “Art of Onsen”. Onsen is the traditional Japanese hot spring bath which will give you an ethereal experience. Onsen has been practised in Japan for centuries and it is said that Onsen bathing activates the body’s systems, stimulates circulation, and speeds up metabolism. 

Apart from this, I’M Onsen Spa also offers Japanese Shiatsu massage, healing stone therapy, jet lag recovery massage, and so on. 

Address: I’M Hotel, UG Floor, Makati Avenue Corner, Kalayaan Ave, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Wednesday & Thursday 12:00 pm to 02:00 am｜Friday to Sunday 11:00 am to 02:00 am (closed on Monday & Tuesday)

Chi, The Spa, Edsa Shangri-La

Get ready to have a luxurious spa in Manila at Chi, The Spa, Edsa Shangri-La . Chi is an ancient practice of the Filipinos for the well-being of the body and mind. This spa will give you an amazing experience through its superb ambience and service. At the same time, the staffs are so friendly that you would like to come back here every time. 

Address: 4 & 5 Floor, Garden Wing, 1 Garden Way, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, 1650 Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Everyday 10:00 am to 08:00 pm

Prea Wellness Spa

Prea Wellness Spa is a colourful paradise where you’ll get a well-deserved self-care experience through its various types of massages, body therapies, and beauty treatments.

This spa provides highly professional therapists to give you the best treatments. Not only that, they prefer to blend traditional remedies and modern techniques to have the best outcome. 

Address: ITC Building Unit F Timog Ave, corner Panay Ave, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Opening Hour: Tuesday to Sunday 01:00 pm to 02:00 am

Where to Stay in Manila

Being the capital city of the Philippines, Manila offers various options of accommodation with different prices and facilities. Here I have recommended a luxury, a mid-range, and a budget hotel. Choose what suits you best.

Luxury Hotel- Raffles Makati

To have the comfort and enjoy the luxury, you can book Raffles Makati. Here you will get an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, business centres, and free Wi-Fi in the entire hotel. This accommodation has a 4.5-star rating and provides excellent services.

To check prices and other facilities, visit Booking or TripAdvisor

Mid-Range Hotel- The Peninsula Manila

Not everyone can afford a luxury hotel. For those who are finding mid-range hotels, The Peninsula Manila can be the best option. It has a 5-star rating and offers an outdoor swimming pool, eight dining options, a spa, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. 

Budget Hotel- DG Budget Hotel

A budget hotel with good facilities is not so rare in Manila. Backpackers can easily access DG Budget Hotel, which is situated just a 10-minute walk from the Ninoy Aquino Airport. This accommodation comes with air-conditioned rooms, a tea/coffee maker, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi access. You can get really good services at a very reasonable price.

To check prices and other facilities, visit Booking .

With my experience and proper research, I always try to give you valuable and acquired information to make your travel easy. If you find this article helpful, let me know in the comment section and show your support.

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Manila has outstanding sightseeing it's true, but visitors who put in the effort will discover its creative soul – from edgy galleries to a lively indie music scene. Combine this with a penchant for speakeasy bars, artisan markets and single-origin coffees, and it's clear to see that Manila is not only one of Asia's most underrated cities, but one of its coolest.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Fort Santiago

Guarding the entrance to the Pasig River is Intramuros' premier tourist attraction: Fort Santiago. Within the fort grounds is an oasis of lovely manicured…

San Agustin Church

The San Agustin Church was the only building left intact after the destruction of Intramuros in WWII. Built between 1587 and 1606, it is the oldest church…

Pinto Art Museum

This fantastic museum in Antipolo, in the hills just east of Metro Manila, showcases some of the Philippines' best contemporary artists. There are six…

Chinese Cemetery

As in life, so it is in death for Manila’s wealthy Chinese citizens, who are buried with every modern convenience in the huge Chinese Cemetery. It's far…

Ayala Museum

This gleaming museum features four floors of superbly curated exhibits on Filipino culture, art and history. At the heart of the collection is a brilliant…

National Museum of Anthropology

Within a resplendent neoclassical building, this superb museum houses a vast and varied collection, including the skullcap of the Philippines’ earliest…

Manila American Cemetery

A poignant and peaceful spot, this sprawling war cemetery on a grassy, beautifully manicured plot is the resting place of 17,206 soldiers killed in battle…

Metropolitan Museum of Manila

The 'Met' is a world-class gallery tracing the evolution of Filipino art from the early 20th century to the present. Virtually all great Filipino painters…

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15 Awesome Things to do in Manila (Itinerary for First Time Visitors)

At first glance it may seem that there aren’t many interesting things to do in Manila, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Manila is a huge megacity that’s home to millions of people, a sprawling metropolis that few travelers hang around in for long.

For many visitors, the Filipino capital is just a transit point on their way to tropical islands, but give any Manila itinerary a chance and you’ll realize that there’s more to this city than just traffic jams and chaos.

To understand the Philippines as a whole, then you have to visit the capital. This is where you’ll find the best museums in the country, alongside the walled city of Intramuros that’s full of historic, colonial relics.

The city is incredibly diverse too, and you can explore the culinary delights of Chinatown, shop at the seemingly endless Divisoria Market and experience the late-night delights of the up and coming Makati district.

There are a lot of great things to do in Manila, and here are our favorites!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Philippines (Travel Guide)

15 Things to Do in Manila (Itinerary for First Time Visitors)

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Intramuros

Intramuros is the most historic area in Manila. The name means ‘Within the Walls’, a Spanish reference to the fact that this was the walled city built to defend the city’s colonial elite from outside revolt or attack.

This was the capital of the Spanish Philippines for 300 years, from the 16th century onwards and it was around Intramuros that the modern metropolis you find today grew.

You can walk along the tall walls that still stand around Intramuros, strolling past Spanish cannon and reading the intriguing historical plaques on the way.

There are countless heritage-listed buildings, you can visit Manila Cathedral and explore the ever imposing Fort Santiago.

Our top recommended tours of Intramuros:

• Private Old and New Manila City Tour
• Manila Old and New: Sightseeing Tour Including Intramuros and Fort Santiago
• Private Half-Day Manila Tour by Jeepney

2. See the Manila Cathedral

Visiting Manila Cathedral – or The Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, as it’s officially known – is one of the best things to do in Manila.

The cathedral dates back to 1571, but it’s gone through many changes since the Spanish first founded it as they attempted to spread Christianity across the Philippines.

The church has been destroyed on at least 7 occasions and the structure you see today is the 8th reincarnation, with war and natural disasters have taken their toll.

Our top recommended tours of Manila Cathedral:

• Manila City Intramuros Tour
• Manila Sightseeing plus Tagaytay Tour with Taal Volcano

3. Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago is an impressive colonial relic that forms part of the walled city, and it’s one of the best things to do in Manila if you’re interested in history.

The fort was built when Manila was declared the capital of the Spanish Philippines and it would quickly become a symbol of Spanish power in the city.

When the Spanish left, the Americans took over, followed by the Japanese during World War II, until Filipino independence saw it turned into a museum.

Many Filipino heroes have been held in the prison cells within the fort, including Jose Rizal, the famed writer who lost his life to the Spanish. You can see a shrine dedicated to his life and death within the fort.

Our top recommended tours of Fort Santiago:

4. Rizal Park

One of the best things to do in Manila is to stroll through Rizal Park. This is the city’s most famous park, and it’s dedicated to the hero of the Filipino Revolution, Jose Rizal, who was executed here by the Spanish in 1898.

It’s an important place, flanked by museums and full of statues and busts of historical characters from Filipino history.

In the late afternoon as the sun begins to set and the temperature lowers, then all of Manila seems to visit Rizal Park to enjoy the laid back atmosphere and cool evening breeze.

Our top recommended tours of Rizal Park:

• Intramuros Manila Tour

5. The National Museum Complex

One of the best things to do in Manila if you’re looking to delve into the country’s history is to visit the National Museum Complex.

The complex comprises several individual museums that are found in grand, neoclassical buildings in Rizal Park.

You can easily spend the day exploring all the different exhibits and departments, which include the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology and the National Museum of Natural History.

6. Manila Bay

Manila Bay is the large, natural harbor that the city is built around, and it’s perhaps the most important feature of the capital.

The wide bay has been the site of naval battles through history, many of which have decided who ruled over the Philippines.

These days though, the bay is best known for its beautiful sunsets and long boardwalks.

You can stroll along the edge of the bay at the forefront of the city, and it’s a favorite spot amongst locals for exercising or just getting out and about, while you can also enjoy evening dinner and sunset cruises across the water for spectacular views of the city skyline.

Our top recommended tour of Manila Bay: Shared Manila Sunset Cruise by the Bay

7. Corregidor Island

One of the best things to do in Manila is to take a boat tour across to Corregidor Island.

This is one of the largest islands that’s found in Manila Bay, and due to its strategic position at the entrance to the bay itself, in the past, it was always one of the most heavily fortified parts of the city.

Today, much of the island is still the site of bunkers, barracks and gun emplacements, and it makes for a great day out from the city.

World War II saw fierce fighting on Corregidor Island when the Japanese invaded, and many of the fortifications are now in ruins.

You can find a memorial to those who died on all sides, while many of the siege tunnels can be explored.

Our top recommended tours of Corregidor Island:

• WWII and Corregidor Island: Historical Sightseeing Tour from Manila
• Corregidor Day Trip from Manila

Exploring Binondo, otherwise known as Chinatown, is one of the best things to do in Manila to learn more about the city’s mixed heritage and culture.

For centuries, Chinese immigrants have shaped Manila, but while the Spanish colonizers lived in Intramuros, the Chinese were forced to live outside the walls, in what became the Binondo district.

Binondo Church is one of the oldest in the country, but the real highlight of a trip to Binondo is the food.

This is one of the best places in the city to delve into the culinary scene, as the mixed Filipino-Chinese history has given Binondo some of the best restaurants and dishes in Manila.

Our top recommended tours of Binondo:

• Binondo Food Tour
• A Taste of Binondo-Chinatown

Makati is Manila’s most up and coming district, a relatively new part of the city that is home to big business and finance. This is where you’ll find skyscrapers and shopping malls, as well as the lovely Ayala Triangle Gardens.

Makati is also renowned for its nightlife, and if you are looking for a few drinks then the many upmarket bars and clubs that are found here are the place to go.

10. Ayala Museum

The Ayala Museum is found in the Makati district, and it’s one of the best things to do in Manila to learn more about Filipino history.

The modern museum houses a wonderful collection of historic artifacts collected from around the Philippines ranging from ancient pottery to prehistoric excavations.

It’s a great place to learn more about the country’s vast number of different ethnic groups too, and their unique history, culture and heritage.

11. Villa Escudero

Just outside of Manila, you can find Villa Escudero, a coconut plantation that offers you the chance to visit the countryside and to experience the local culture .

You can visit an onsite museum, enjoy entertainment shows, ride a bamboo raft across the lake and best of all, enjoy a gourmet dining experience beneath a waterfall.

Our top recommended tours of Villa Escudero:

• Villa Escudero Tour with Lunch From Manila
• Private Tour: Villa Escudero with Lunch from Manila
• Villa Escudero Coconut Plantation Day Trip from Manila

12. Pagsanjan Falls

One of the best day trips from Manila is to Pagsanjan Falls, a spectacular waterfall that will blow you away with its size and location.

It’s a great way to escape the bustling streets of the city and to get back to nature, as you’ll be immersed in the forest on your way to the waterfall.

The only way to reach the falls is by hiking from the nearest town or by taking the popular local dugout canoes along the river, to see the triple cascades from below.

Our top recommended tours of Pagsanjan Falls:

• Pagsanjan Falls from Manila
• Pagsanjan Falls Adventure from Manila
• Pagsanjan Falls Day Tour from Manila

13. Taal Volcano

Despite being a huge mega-city, Manila makes for a surprisingly good base to reach nearby natural attractions, and one of the best places to visit is the Taal Volcano.

The Philippines is rife with volcanic activity, and the Taal Volcano is one of the second most active in the country.

It’s also one of the most beautiful volcanoes, as here you can find a volcano within a volcano, as a large water-filled crater on an even larger lake surrounds the active cone. It’s a spectacular sight, and perfect for outdoor activities.

Our top recommended tours of Taal Volcano:

• Full-Day Taal Trekking Shared Trip from Manila
• Private Taal Volcano Trekking with Lunch from Manila

14. Tagaytay

Taal Volcano is found in the Tagaytay region to the south of Manila, but there’s plenty more to do here on your day out, and it makes for a popular trip from the city for a variety of reasons.

Tagaytay is found in the highlands, and if you’re over the sweltering humidity of Manila, this makes for a cool and blissful retreat. There are hiking opportunities, scenic viewpoints and plenty of spas offering relaxation treatments!

Our top recommended tours of Tagaytay:

• Tagaytay Ridge Tour from Manila: Palace in the Sky, Taal Volcano and Las Pinas Bamboo Organ
• Private Half-Day Tagaytay Tour from Manila

15. Malacanang Palace

Back in Manila, a visit to the Malacanang Palace will give you a chance to see where and how the President lives in the city.

The grand building dates back to the 1750s when it was built by the Spanish to serve as the residence for their governors, in a prime position on the river.

More on the Philippines: 

• Coron Palawan: The Only Guide You Need
• 30 Must Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines
• 36 Philippines Photos To Inspire Your Next Vacation
• 25 Amazing Drone Photos of the Philippines
• 24 Bohol Tourist Spots & Things to Do That You Cannot Miss
• Travel Recap: 4 Weeks in the Philippines
• Crowning Glory Reef: World Class Snorkeling off Culion Island, Philippines
• Scuba Diving in Puerto Galera, Philippines
• Glimpses of Culion Island in the Philippines- B&W Photo Essay
• Exploring Busuanga and Getting Off the Beaten Track in the Philippines
• Mountain Biking Adventure Busuanga, Philippines
• Finding a Piece of Africa on Calauit Island, Philippines
• Philippines: How to Get From Manila to Puerto Galera

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Places to Visit in Manila

• Philippines
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Manila

Here is the list of best places to visit in manila:.

Manila Ocean Park

San Agustin Church

Fort Santiago

National Museum Of The Philippines

Best of Philippines

Arroceros Forest Park

Manila Cathedral

Robinsons Place Mall

Best of Hong Kong

National Museum Of Fine Arts

Ayala Museum

Star City Amusement Park

Best of Kuala Lumpur

Paco Park And Cemetery

Greenbelt Chapel

Casa Manila

Best of Macau

Binondo Church

Manila Baywalk

Quiapo Church

Best of Taiwan

Divisoria market.

Manila City Hall

People Also Ask About Manila

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16 Things to do in Manila + Tourist Spots

Manila is the Philippines’ main international gateway. But, let me tell you, Manila is more than just a jumpoff point to the Philippines’s vast tourist destinations.

As the country’s capital city, it is a bustling, bayside metropolis filled with modern-day attractions for all ages and interests. Manila’s cityscape is also perfectly blended with heritage sites from the Spanish colonial period, including the famous walled city of Intramuros, and the iconic citadel of Fort San Pedro.  There is so much to experience in Manila, and exploring it may seem a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time travelers, but with a well-planned itinerary, there is so much you can discover that you’ll love traveling here over and over again.

There’s a lot of interesting spots you can visit near the airport as well as places near Manila for day trips. So whether you’re in for just a short layover or have a few days to spare, there’s definitely something for you.

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in Manila including top things to do & the best Manila tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your Manila itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: Best Travel Apps .

View all travel tips on: Manila .

1. Intramuros

Marcos at Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila City, Philippines

Location : Near Central LRT Station. Taft Avenue/Bonifacio Drive, Manila City, Metro Manila . Save on Google Maps .

A welcome sight against peaking skyscrapers, Intramuros is a walled city that is often dubbed as the heart of Old Manila. It’s the oldest part of the city and dates back to the Spanish colonization period. Its thick walls have stood through time and entering them will take you on a trip back in history.

Intramuros was the seat of political power during the Spanish regime and its churches, courtyards, and buildings boast of the era’s finest architecture. You can easily enjoy the picturesque sites strolling throughout the area or while riding a “bambike” through a bamboo bike tour. You can even experience the scenic routes while riding a horse-driven carriage called a “kalesa”. The kalesa guided tour is a cultural immersion through the past as you pass by the beautiful and iconic historical sites such as Manila Cathedral, Palacio del Gobernador, Casa Manila, and the baroque-styled San Agustin Church, the Philippines’ oldest stone-built church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

When in Intramuros, do not forget to visit Fort San Pedro. It’s one of the country’s oldest stone citadel and a historic national monument that has been preserved through time. Other places to see in Intramuros include the Baluarte de San Diego, Plaza de Roma, Bahay Tsinoy, and the Ayuntamiento building. Intramuros is also packed with historic sculptures and statues, and you can easily spend a day reveling in its beauty. If you’re a bit pressed on time though, there are numerous tours you can choose from that will take you through the walled city’s cultural highlights.

Intramuros Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

See rates & book online

Intramuros Bambike Tour

Old Manila – Heritage Full Day Tour

White Knight Electric Chariot Intramuros Day Tour

Book your trip to Manila

Before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip! Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Manila Hotels Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers WIFI Internet/Data SIM

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Manila Airport-NAIA Shuttle Bus

COVID-19 RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen – Manila Drive Thru & Home Testing

Tagaytay Day Tour

Manila Private Car Charter

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2. Bonifacio Global City

Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines

Location : Metro Manila . Save on Google Maps .

Commonly called as BGC by locals, Bonifacio Global City is a financial and lifestyle hub in the city of Taguig. It is also often referred to as The Fort or simply Global City. This area teeming with multinational corporations, malls, luxury hotels, and high-end residential buildings. BGC is also quite popular for its nightlife as it is also home to the hottest clubs, bars, and restaurants.

A visit to BGC is also never complete without stopping over at Bonifacio High Street. Boasting of open-air, high-end stores, and diverse restaurants in the numerous shopping blocks, Bonifacio High Street is BGC’s retail and entertainment core. Also, if you want to shop with an interesting twist, I suggest you try the Venice Grand Canal Mall, where you can relax on a gondola ride on open canals and enjoy a great view of Venetian-inspired architecture. Other malls in BGC include SM Aura, Uptown Mall, and Market! Market!.

Bonifacio Global City is also a cultural hotspot. Colorful and gigantic murals painted by international and local artists line BGC, making the area a popular site for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Here, you can also visit the Mind Museum, a world-class museum of science that has over 250 collections that range from interactive exhibits, experiment demonstrations, exciting and unique programs, planetarium shows, and so much more. The Manila American Cemetery & Memorial is also located in Bonifacio Global City. It comprises 152 acres of land and is the largest US military cemetery. It was built to honor American and Filipino WWII soldiers and houses more than 17 thousand gravestones that are perfectly aligned in 11 plots to form a circular pattern. A white chapel stands on the cemetery’s far end, and on each side stands a hemicycle whose tablet walls are inscribed with the names of the missing. The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is open to the public and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

BGC Travel Essentials

The Mind Museum All Day Pass

3. Okada Manila & Manila Bay Entertainment City

Location : New Seaside Dr, Tambo, Parañaque City . Save on Google Maps .

Okada Manila, formerly named as Manila Bay Resorts, is one of the premier destinations in Manila Bay Entertainment City. Its crowning jewel and Manila’s modern-day icon is The Fountain – an expansive multi-colored dancing fountain rivaling that of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and Vegas’ Bellagio. The fountain show starts at 6 PM and is free for public viewing.

Aside from The Foundation, Okada Manila’s unique architecture and picturesque interiors is also a sight to behold. The complex’s five-star hotel has 993 lavish suites and villas that have spectacular views of either The Fountain or of Manila Bay’s spectacular sunset. Another sought-after attraction here is Cove Manila – an indoor beach club that turns into a nightclub at night. It is equipped with highly advanced climate control, visual, sound, and lighting tech that provides perfect summer weather all year long, and an unparalleled multisensory nightclub experience. This day-to-night party experience is unique to Cove Manila in the metro.

Okada Manila is part of the Manila Bay Entertainment City project, an ongoing Vegas-inspired gaming strip that stretches up to 8 km along the famed Manila Bay. The project’s official name is the “Bagong Nayong Pilipino-Entertainment City” but is more commonly referred to as Entertainment City Manila. It includes integrated resorts that feature upscale hotels, casinos, dining, and entertainment centers including Okada Manila, Solaire Resort & Casino, City of Dreams & more

Okada Manila

See rates & reviews

Manila Bay Travel Essentials

Where to stay

Okada Manila Sunset Experience

Okada Manila Daytime Pass with Lunch Buffet

Okada Manila Tour and Dine (Guided Tour + Dining Gift Certificates)

4. National Museum of Natural History & the National Museum Complex

National Museum of Natural History in Manila City, Philippines

Location : Teodoro F. Valencia Circle, Ermita, Manila City . Save on Google Maps .

If you love the arts or prefer a relaxed trip exploring history and heritage, then the National Museum Complex is for you. You can even take a private museum tour that’s tailored to your interests. The museum houses collections in archaeology, natural history, ethnography, and fine arts that showcase the Filipino’s artistry and talents throughout time.

The complex includes four sections – natural history, fine arts, anthropology, and the planetarium. The National Museum of Natural History displays the biodiversity of the Philippines’ ecosystem with over 10 galleries on plants and animals. You can check out the actual skeletal remains and a real-life replica of Lolong — previously the world’s largest saltwater crocodile held in captivity. The “tree of life” is also a popular attraction. It’s a glass elevator with an intricate canopy that offers a bird’s eye view of the museum. The museum encourages interaction through hands-on activities, like drawing tables for children.

Another section is the National Museum of Fine Arts houses different works of national artists, including the famous Spoliarium by Juan Luna. It’s the largest painting in the Philippines. The National Museum of Anthropology features collections in anthropology and archeology. Here you can learn more about the culture of native people throughout time along with the Philippines’ ancient script – the “Baybayin”. The last section is the National Planetarium, where you can view real-life projections of celestial bodies. They also have different shows featuring wonders of astronomy through a full-dome Planetarium projector.

Manila Heritage Museum Crawl

5. Binondo (Manila Chinatown)

Carriedo Fountain in Binondo (Manila Chinatown), Manila City, Philippines

Location : Near Carriedo LRT Station. Manila City . Save on Google Maps .

You might not think that Binondo is a tourist destination because of its tight streets and old buildings, but it’s a cultural hotspot and one of the best places for a gastronomic adventure. The dim sum here is one you wouldn’t want to miss. There’s even a guided food tour that showcases Binondo’s best dishes and iconic churches.

Binondo or Manila’s Chinatown is buzzing with vibrant streetside shops that sell just about everything. It was established in 1594 and is considered the oldest Chinatown in the world. When in Binondo, you should visit Binondo Church (also known as the San Lorenzo Ruiz Basilica Minor). Built in 1596, the church is an iconic landmark that was built for Chinese traders that were converted to Christianism during the Spanish rule. The church holds masses in English, Filipino and Chinese. Aside from it, Binondo’s main streets, Escolta and Ongpin Street are other places you will enjoy exploring.

Binondo Travel Essentials

Old Manila Filipino Food Crawl

The Big Binondo Food Wok

Makati is the financial capital of the Philippines, and one of the countries’ biggest business districts. If you’re looking for a world-class hotel, then there’s no better place than its central business district located along Ayala Avenue. Makati is also famous for its shopping hub – Ayala Center. If you’re into shopping then you wouldn’t want to miss Greenbelt Mall which houses many international brands, luxurious boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment amenities. Jumping from one mall to the next is also quite easy on foot.

Another great place to stay and visit is Makati Poblacion. It’s known for its upbeat nightlife and is one of the best places for dining, drinking, and shopping. The area around Kalayaan Avenue is packed with dive-bars, street foods, and live music events. Makati Poblacion is also home to the high-end lifestyle hub, Rockwell Center, and avant-garde art galleries like the Pineapple Lab. What’s even better is that there are accommodations available for any budget – from backpacker hostels to lucrative hotels.

If you’re in Makati on a Saturday, a visit to the Salcedo Market is a great way to kill some time. They open from 7:00 AM and close at noon, and if you want to get first dibs on the best local produce, then I suggest you go there early. Aside from fresh fruits and vegetables, you can also get beverages, cooked foods, delicacies, and other interesting finds.

Makati Travel Essentials

7. Newport City & Resorts Word Manila

Marcos at Maxims Hotel in Newport City, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines

Location : In front of NAIA-Manila Airport Terminal 3. Newport Blvd, Pasay City . Save on Google Maps .

Just on the outskirts of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Villamor Golf Club, Newport City is a well-developed township complete with ritzy hotels, upscale residential condos, and business establishments. All these are integrated with the impressive Resorts World Manila and is a short walking distance from the NAIA Airport Terminal 3 via the Runway Manila FootBridge.

Aside from its proximity to the airport, Newport Mall is another reason that makes Newport City the best spot to kill time if you’re in for a layover. The mall is a four-story commercial center that includes luxury shops, a wide range of dining options, salons, a full-service spa, a play center, and a 3D cinema. Traveling with your family? A trip to the GameZoo will keep the kids entertained with arcades and thrilling 6D rides. You can also watch a live stage show in the Newport Performing Arts Theater here.

Spend a night (or more) & enjoy Newport City and Resorts World Manila’s many world-class entertainment & dining options. With world-class hotels, such as Marriott Hotel, Sheraton Manila, Maxims Hotel, Hilton Hotel Hotel, Belmont Hotel, Savoy Hotel & Holiday Inn Express integrated within the resort, you will want to stay here.

Resorts Word Manila Travel Essentials

8. SM Mall of Asia

Location : 123 Seaside Blvd, Pasay City . Save on Google Maps .

The SM Mall of Asia, often dubbed by locals as SM MoA or simply MoA, is not your average mall. It is one of the largest malls in the world, and aside from shopping, dining, and the usual amenities, it has a whole host of entertainment features that include an Olympic-sized skating rink, an amusement park, concert grounds, the Science Center, and the SMX Convention Center. The 65th Miss Universe was even held at the Mall of Asia Arena that can hold up to 20,000 guests.

The bayside grounds and amusement park cooled by the sea breeze, together with the mall’s extensive dining options make SM Mall of Asia a great place to visit over and over again. You can even enjoy a fireworks show on weekends. But it can get pretty crowded since SM Mall of Asia is extremely popular among locals and tourists. If you’re not into crowds, try visiting during weekdays during office hours.

SM by the Bay Amusement Park Ride-All-You-Can Day Pass

Where to go near Manila

9. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Bataan

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan

Location : Bagac, Bataan province . Save on Google Maps .

A historical and heritage haven, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan is a complex of beautifully restored Spanish-Filipino ancestral houses. The resort’s intricate architecture, landscape, and immersive tours will take you back to the glory days of Old Manila. Whether you take the Tramvia or a kalesa through its cobblestone roads or ride a balsa along the waterway, you will fall in love with the resort’s unique appeal. Stay a night in their Spanish styled, upscale hotel rooms or in your very own lucrative private casa that perfectly blends old world charm with modern amenities, and you’ll feel like you’re living in the shoes of the country’s elites during the colonial era.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Travel Essentials

10. Tagaytay & Taal Lake

Taal Volcano view from Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines

Location : Cavite-Batangas province . Save on Google Maps .

Tagaytay’s cool weather, good food, outdoor parks, and family-friendly attractions make it a favorite weekend getaway from Manila’s busy and fast-paced lifestyle. Tagaytay is most known for its scenic view of the world-famous Taal Lake. The lake, or caldera to be more accurate, holds the iconic Taal Volcano – the smallest active volcano in the world. It’s a rare wonder, with the confusing description “a lake within an island on a lake on an island within a lake” that you would have to see for yourself. You will enjoy this view from different angles all over Tagaytay Ridge. What’s even better is that the ridge is speckled with numerous outdoor attractions such as People’s Park in the Sky, Tagaytay Picnic Grove, Sky Ranch, and many more.

When it comes to good food, Tagaytay won’t disappoint. For early travelers, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at Antonio’s Garden or at the restaurants and cafes along Tagaytay ridge. You can also check out Sonya’s Secret Garden on the outskirts of the city for a great meal and for photo-ops. Tagaytay is also popular for their steaming bowl of “bulalo” or beef marrow stew – a perfect meal for the cool weather. Try getting some at Bulalo Point, Balay Dako, Leslies, and in the stalls of Mahogany Market.

Tagaytay Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Sky Ranch Tagaytay Ride-All-You-Can Day Pass

Paradizoo Admission Ticket in Tagaytay

Tagaytay Day Tour from Manila

11. Cavinti Falls (Pagsanjan Falls)

Location : Cavinti, Laguna . Save on Google Maps .

Pagsanjan Falls is one of the Philippines’ most well-known waterfalls and Laguna’s major tourist attractions. It’s a majestic three-drop wonder that can be reached via an exhilarating banca ride, popularly known as Shooting the Rapids. You can also reach the falls by hiking Pueblo El Salvador Nature’s Park and Picnic Grove. They also have view decks that allow you to see the fall’s different levels. But if you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience I highly suggest the banca ride. It’s a thrilling and scenic adventure where skilled boatmen navigate through turbulent crystal clear waters as you pass by magnificent greenery, rock formations, gorges, and smaller waterfalls. Once at the base of Pagsanjan Falls, you can also ride a bamboo raft that will take you behind its rushing waters towards Devil’s cave. Don’t forget to bring some extra clothes!

Laguna Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Pagsanjan Falls Private Day Tour from Manila by Vina Tour

12. Villa Escudero

Location : Tiaong, Quezon province . Save on Google Maps .

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience a relaxing time at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort with its alluring blend of nature with rustic country life appeal. The place was founded in 1880 as a sugarcane plantation and was converted to a coconut plantation in the early 1900s. It houses the country’s first-ever hydroelectric power plant. Both the powerplant and the plantation are running smoothly to this day.

Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort is perfect for a day trip, or even an overnight stay. Eating at their world-renowned Labasin Waterfalls Restaurant is a must-try experience. Other activities here include exploring the Escudero’s private museum which houses one of the Philippines’ largest private collection of antiquities, bamboo rafting, and touring the resort on a carabao cart ride. They also have cultural shows and other recreational amenities.

Villa Escudero Travel Essentials

Villa Escudero Tour from Manila

13. Enchanted Kingdom

Location : Santa Rosa, Laguna . Save on Google Maps .

Located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Enchanted Kingdom is the Philippines’ first and only theme park. With seven themed zones, the park boasts of 20 major attractions that range from thrilling rides like the Space Shuttle and Disk O Magic to interactive 7D and 4D motion theaters, live attractions, and family-friendly activities. Their newest attraction, Agila: EKsperience is unique to the Philippines and showcases the country’s wonders through a flight simulation ride.

The park can also cater to up to 25,000 guests and accommodates in-group reservations. It’s a choice venue for events including birthdays, weddings, conferences, corporate team building activities, school programs, and even more. The park’s magical appeal continues to enchant visitors of all ages to keep coming back, that they even offer an “EKsperience the Magic Card” – a one-time purchase card that allows unlimited admissions for an entire year.

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

14. Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake

Location : Botolan, Zambales . Save on Google Maps .

Despite the tragedy brought upon its eruption in 1991, Mount Pinatubo continues to attract more and more people. The turquoise waters of its massive crater is a marvelous sight to behold, and trekking towards it is a scenic adventure that also involves 4×4 rides on lahar fields. You can DIY a day trip for it from Capas, Tarlac or Botolan, Zambales. You can also get a hassle-free package tour in Manila. If you are doing a DIY trip, you have to be at Sta. Juliana Tourism by 10 AM to book a 4×4 ride. Traveling through the mountain beyond that time is not allowed, because it takes about an hour for the 4×4 ride and at least 2 more for the trek on foot.

A trip to Mount Pinatubo can easily be done in a day, but since you have to travel very early to get there, staying near the area is also a great option. There are plenty of hotels and inns here, plus there are fun activities you can try before or after your trek to the volcano. You can try the relaxing volcanic ash massage at Pinatubo Spa Town, or bask in the rejuvenating Dolores and Bueno Hot Springs. You can also visit historical sites such as Campo Santo Município, O’Donnell Church, and Capas Shrine, or see some of the Japanese war tunnels and caves.

15. Hundred Islands & Pangasinan

Location : Alaminos Pangasinan . Save on Google Maps .

If you love beaches and tropical islands, then a trip to the Hundred Island is just what you’re looking for. Located in Alaminos, Pangasinan, it’s a national park that totals to over a hundred islands flowing with white sand beaches, caves, rock cliffs, and diverse marine life. Four of these islands have been developed for tourism – Children’s Island, Governor Island, Marcos Island, and Quezon Island.

There are tons to do in the Hundred Islands – from zip-lining and climbing the view deck in Governor Island, snorkeling in Quezon Island to cliff diving at Marcos Island. You can also go cave exploring, fishing, or try your hand at the numerous watersports available. If you have kids, they have plenty of family-friendly activities at Children Island as well.

There’s so much to do in the Hundred Islands that you will want to spend more than just a day here, and fortunately, there are several resorts on the island that you can stay at. You can even go camping for free along the beautiful beaches of the islands. If you’re planning a day trip, you will have to leave Manila by 2:00 AM because the Hundred Island National Park is about five hours from Manila so that you can maximize your time here. I suggest you get a tour so that you won’t have to worry about transport, and you can catch up on some sleep while you travel.

Pangasinan Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts Check Fares

Hundred Islands Day Trip from Manila

16. Corregidor Island

World War II Barracks Ruins in Corregidor, Cavite City, Philippines

Location : Cavite City . Save on Google Maps .

See more near Manila

Clark & Angeles City

Location : Clark Freeport, Angeles City, Pampanga province . Save on Google Maps .

Clark Travel Essentials

Dinosaurs Island Clark Admission Ticket

Zoocobia Admission Ticket in Clark

Clark Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

See more : Clark & Angeles City travel tips

Wright Park in Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

Location : Benguet province . Save on Google Maps .

Baguio Travel Essentials

Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

Baguio Day Tour from Manila

Baguio Historical Walking Tour

See more : Baguio travel tips

San Juan, La Union

Location : La Union province, Ilocos region . Save on Google Maps .

San Juan Travel Essentials

Philippines 4G Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

Philippines Unlimited Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

See more : San Juan, La Union travel tips

Puerto Galera

Location : Oriental Mindoro province . Save on Google Maps .

Puerto Galera Travel Essentials

Puerto Galera-Manila Si-Kat FerryBus Tickets (Round Trip and One Way)

Surfers at Sabang Beach, in Baler, Aurora, Philippines

Location : Aurora province . Save on Google Maps .

Baler Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

See more : Baler travel tips

Anawangin & Nagsasa Cove, Zambales

Location : San Antonio, Zambales province . Save on Google Maps .

Hulugan Falls & Laguna Province

Hulugan Falls in Luisiana, Laguna, Philippines

Location : Luisiana, Laguna . Save on Google Maps .

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Manila that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Manila

Manila tourist spots, things to do in Manila, where to go in Manila & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Manila

Click below & search recommended Manila hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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September 30, 2021 at 11:33 pm

I really like your article, especially the part about the Intramuros because I really want to explore that place:)

13 Best Things to Do in Manila, the Philippines

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Most tourists heading to the Philippines tend to skip over Manila, choosing instead to head straight to tropical beach destinations like Palawan , Boracay , or Bohol . However, the sprawling Filipino capital city and surrounding metro area offer a completely different side of the country away from the touristy resorts, and it's an especially popular stop for backpackers traveling throughout Southeast Asia for its affordability and rich culture, expressed in architecture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine.

Immerse Yourself in Filipino Culture

Ayala Museum

For an overarching introduction to Filipino art, culture, and history, spend a day exploring the Ayala Museum in the Makati Business District. The building includes six stories of exhibits ranging from pre-colonization artifacts to contemporary art, so visitors can really get a grasp of the Philippines in one condensed lesson.

Sixty individual and elaborately designed dioramas give a visual archive of some of the most important milestones throughout Filipino history, dating all the way back to prehistoric times and leading up to the Philippines independence from the U.S. in 1946. Other exhibits focus on the tumultuous years since independence, while entire floors are dedicated to the works from some of the most important Filipino artists.

Dive Under the Sea at the Manila Ocean Park

If Manila is just a pitstop on your way to other beach destinations in the Philippines, you'll see plenty of sea life while snorkeling in the Pacific. But you can get a comprehensive preview at the Manila Ocean Park, which includes a massive Oceanarium of nearly 300 different marine species native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. At the heart of the aquarium is a giant tunnel that lets visitors walk through the tank for a 220-degree view of the animals around them.

While the Oceanarium is the main attraction at Manila Ocean Park, it's not the only one. Get hands-on with reptiles and insects at the World of Creepy Crawlies exhibit, or visit some feathered friends at the Birdhouse. The Manila Ocean Park is right on the water of Manila Bay and conveniently located at the edge of Rizal Park.

Visit the Birthplace of Manila at Intramuros

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Once upon a time, "Manila" referred only to the parts of the city within the walls of Intramuros. This fortified wall dates back to the arrival of Spanish colonizers, who ruled the rest of the Philippines from inside this self-contained world. While many of the bygone structures have been destroyed over the centuries by war and natural disasters, some of the original structures can still be found, like the San Agustin Church , the Governor-General's Palace, and the fearsome Fort Santiago .

Today, the Walled City of Intramuros is now open for tourists. Visitors can explore relics of Spanish rule in the Philippines, including museums like the Bahay Tsinoy, which is dedicated to telling the story of the Filipino-Chinese community.

Enjoy Wide-Open Space at Rizal Park

The massive public park facing Manila Bay called Rizal Park has something for everyone. In a place like Manila—the most densely populated city in the world—finding open space to enjoy isn't easy to come by, but the huge Rizal Park is a welcome exception. The park's namesake—Jose Rizal—is a national hero who helped lead the country toward independence from Spain and was executed, and he's buried underneath the towering obelisk. Every evening, there's a light and sound show at the exact spot he was martyred.

Beside just taking a stroll through the 140-acre park, visitors can also take part in kali martial arts lessons, watch the changing of the guard at the Rizal Monument at noon, or take scenic photos of colorful orchids and butterflies at the Orchidarium.

Hear the Echoes of War at Corregidor Island

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Once a heavily-armed fortress guarding the entrance of the bay, Corregidor Island served as Manila's final line of defense during the Japanese invasion of World War II. The Battle of Corregidor killed countless U.S. and allied Filipino soldiers before General Douglas MacArthur surrendered to the Japanese and famously promised, "I shall return."

A number of memorials stand on Corregidor, standing among the ruins of the American settlement that stood on the island between 1900 and 1941. American-era fortifications and gun batteries can be reached by tourist buses traveling on winding concrete roads. Most tours culminate in a visit to the Malinta Tunnel, an underground shelter that housed General MacArthur before his retreat to Australia.

Cast a Spotlight on History at Manila's Public Museums

Tripsavvy / Mike Aquino

Three American-era government buildings near Rizal Park were converted into museums showcasing Philippine culture and history. Similar to the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of the Philippines is the umbrella organization that includes a number of public museums in Manila.

The former Finance Building is now the National Museum of Anthropology , and its hallways now display ethnographic relics from the Philippines' many Indigenous cultures. Rescued relics from the wreck of the Manila galleon "San Diego" can be seen on the museum's second floor.

The former Agriculture Building was transformed into the Museum of Natural History , where the Philippines’ rich biodiversity sits on display around a giant lobby centerpiece sculpted to resemble DNA.

The former Senate Building now serves as the National Museum of Fine Arts , where priceless artwork by famous Filipino artists stand alongside images of Catholic saints rescued from the Philippines' many old churches .

Visit Southeast Asia's Oldest Chinatown

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The district of Binondo was founded as a home for Manila’s Christianized Chinese population during the era of Spanish colonization. Today, the hodge-podge of skyscrapers and ancient shophouses nonetheless remains the cultural center of Manila's "Chinoys," the Tagalog expression for the Chinese-Filipinos.

Binondo Church represents the paradox of Chinese culture in the Philippines—a Catholic Church with distinct Chinese influences, the Binondo Church caters to the spiritual needs of local Catholics.

Walk deeper into Binondo's narrow streets to experience awesome food and culture , where you can experience the unique noodle stylings of Masuki , feng shui tips at Sunrise , and the Chinese-inspired sweets and pastries of Eng Bee Tin , among others.

Watch a Manila Bay Sunset

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Don't leave Manila without witnessing one of its spectacular sunsets over Manila Bay. The best place to see it is along the Manila Baywalk, a beachfront promenade that's over a mile long and is one of the most popular places in the city for grabbing a drink, eating with a view, or just taking a scenic stroll. The Baywalk is lined with bars, cafes, and restaurants with outdoor seating, oftentimes with live music or other activities in the evenings.

Browse and Buy from Manila's Weekend Markets

Even the biggest city in the Philippines craves for fresh-from-the-market goods; Manila's weekend markets serve that hefty demand. On weekends, tourists hit Makati’s Salcedo Village Market (open on Saturdays) and the Legazpi Village Market (open on Sundays) to buy homemade fish paste, the rice sweets called suman , and handmade crafts.

The most well-known market in Manila, however, is Divisoria Market. There are many high-end shopping malls around Manila, but Divisoria Market is the place to go for bargain deals and haggling. The huge marketplace is more like a small neighborhood, so plan to spend some time walking through the stalls and taking a gander at all of the local goods.

See Manila’s Futuristic Side at Bonifacio Global City

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Bonifacio Global City, or just"BGC," feels almost foreign to Manila: a parklike business area with almost as many museums and open-air shopping districts as office buildings. Bars and restaurants can be found almost everywhere throughout BGC, but most of them are located along Bonifacio High Street, a main-street-style shopping district housing some of the world's finest retail and dining brands. High-end hotels also dominate the BGC skyline—the Shangri-La at the Fort is but one example.

A patriotic detour (for U.S. citizens anyway) can be found at the Philippines' counterpart to Arlington Cemetery nearby: the 152-acre Manila American Cemetery holds the graves of 17,202 American and allied servicemen.

Go Antique Shopping at Cubao X

Formerly a shoe emporium called Marikina Shoe Expo, its takeover by creative types spurred its transformation into the cutting-edge Cubao X, where the cross-pollination of vintage stores and indie artists produce a uniquely Filipino brand of retro magic.

You can find old-school toys, movie merch, and handmade Filipino souvenirs in Cubao X’s vintage shops, such as Grey Market Vintage and My Breathing Space . Studio Soup sells zines from the Philippines and across Asia. Vinyl collectors can browse collections curated by Gold Digger and Vinyl Dump . Ateliers like Kendo Creative sell artisanal stickers, enamel pins, bags, and maps created by up-and-coming artists.

Foodies can also dig into Cubao X’s restaurant and bar scene, ably held up by Bellini’s for Italian food, Fred’s Revolucion for craft beers and Filipino food , and Habanero Kitchen Bar for adventurous world cuisine.

Traveling with kids? A detour next to Bellini’s leads out to an interactive art museum, Art in Island , where you can pose for selfies against fantastic backdrops.

Cool down at Tagaytay and Taal Lake

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Manila's heat can be intolerable between March and July, and Manila residents and tourists escape the heat at Tagaytay, located 34 miles south of Manila at a higher elevation overlooking the Taal Lake and volcano.

The laid-back town is home to a number of mountain resorts and hotels boasting excellent vantage points for viewing Taal Volcano. If you want to visit the volcano itself, that can be arranged, too: you'll need to take a "jeepney"—the ubiquitous and quirky public transportation around Manila — to the lip of the lake and negotiate a trip with one of the many touts waiting for travelers.

Drink and Dine in Poblacion’s Hipster Scene

Immediately north of the hyper-modern Ayala business district in Makati, the proudly bohemian Poblacion district keeps it real for hipsters and backpackers. Called “WilliamsBurgos” by locals (a portmanteau of the area’s Burgos Street with Brooklyn's Williamsburg), Poblacion mixes the seedy with the cutting-edge thanks to go-go bars, hostels, watering holes, and restaurants that show a more experimental and authentic side of Manila.

The food and drink scene in Poblacion seems to change from month to month, but a few names stand out. For example, Wantusawa Oyster Bar provides fresh oysters from Aklan and other Asian-influenced seafood dishes and A'Toda Madre serves top-shelf tequilas and mixtos.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » Manila

EPIC MANILA Itinerary! (2024)

Vibrant Manila is a tantalizing destination! It’s a great mix of sophistication and chaos that will blow your mind! With fun activities, amazing landmarks and plenty of insider tips, our Manila itinerary will make sure that you have a holiday to remember!

Whether you’re shopping up a storm at the bargain hunter’s paradise of Divisoria Market or marveling at antique art in the National Museum of Fine Arts, there are so many awesome things to do in Manila, Philippines!

As the capital and financial center of the Philippines, Manila boasts many modern facilities to ensure you have a comfortable trip. However, it also has plenty of history and cultural attractions to make sure that you have fun on our Manila itinerary!

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Best Time to Visit Manila

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Knowing when to visit Manila is one of the most crucial aspects of your trip! That said, Manila enjoys a fairly consistent climate, so there are very few bad times to visit the city!

Peak season falls during spring, from March to May. On the plus side, many Manila attractions are open for visitors and the weather is warm but not too humid. However, you will have to share Manila with your fellow tourists and pay a steeper price!

The off-peak season is from June to August. Although this is summer, you can expect the most rainfall during this period, as well as humidity.

The best time to travel to Manila is during one of the shoulder seasons. November is a good month to visit since the rain slows down and the city is still uncrowded. There are more crowds in May but the weather is warm and you can still enjoy a wide range of attractions!

With a population of around 1.7 million people, Manila is a massive city, so choosing where to stay can be overwhelming! There are 16 districts that all have unique characters, but you’ll probably only need to visit three or four of them.

The best place to stay in Manila in 3 days is Makati. This is a beautiful, clean and safe district in the center of the city. It’s the city’s business district, but it’s also home to plenty of famous Manila points of interest, such as the Ayala Museum. There are also some gorgeous green spaces like Washington SyCip Park. It caters to visitors of all tastes!

Quezon City is another popular area to consider staying in due to its creativity and energy. It’s located outside of the city center and has a vibrant, trendy atmosphere to enjoy! This is the best place to stay in Manila in 3 days if you’re looking to experience the contemporary local culture. Foodies will also love this area, due to the host of fashionable cafes, busy bars, and various restaurants!

Best Hostel in Manila – Manila-Z-Hostel

This hostel has the perfect location in the central district of Makati! It’s consistently praised for its cleanliness and friendly staff. The hostel also has a very vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of social events taking place on its iconic rooftop bar. You’re guaranteed to have a good time here!

If you prefer to stay in hostels, check out our guide to the BEST hostels in Manila.

Best Budget Hotel in Manila – OYO 179 Aguados Place

Offering free Wifi, impeccable rooms, and helpful staff, OYO 179 Aguados Place is the ideal accommodation for budget travelers! It has a central location and a nearby metro station, making it easy to get around Manila.

For more budget accommodtion, consider staying at these cool Manila AirBnB’s.

Best Luxury Hotel in Manila – The Manila Hotel

The amazing five-star hotel is in a quiet part of the city center, just 3,000 feet from the Manila Cathedral. The rooms and suites are opulently decorated with marble bathrooms and embossed textiles. You can also experience top-quality gourmet dishes and poolside cocktails at the Manila Hotel!

Knowing what to do in Manila is key to having a good time in the city! Luckily, you can make use of our awesome Manila itinerary to discover the city’s key sites and best activities! All over the city, you’ll find that things to see in Manila are often close together. However, you will need transport to reach these areas!

Manila has two railway systems, the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and the Light Rail Transit (LRT). They’re a great way of beating the traffic but they don’t cover the entire city and overcrowding often leads to pickpocketing.

A quick way of getting around during your Manila itinerary is to use motorized tricycles. These are quite cheap, so long as you negotiate! There are also a number of eco-friendly electric tricycles.

The cheapest way of getting around Manila is to use buses and jeepneys (colorful buses with some features of a Jeep). These cover the entire city but are also difficult for first-timers to navigate. In the city center, however, if you use only the common routes you should be fine!

Of course, Manila also has a thriving taxi cab industry. It’s important to negotiate and try to pay in exact change but the public buses will be easier on you pockets if you’re backpacking the Philippines. You can also use the GrabTaxi app to hail a taxi but that costs more.

Ayala Museum | Greenbelt | Intramuros | Fort Santiago | The Rizal Shrine | San Agustin Church and Museum | Manila Cathedral

Today’s Manila itinerary is all about orienting yourself with the city center and admiring some of the city’s most gorgeous landmarks! It’s amazing how much you can see in just one day in Manila!

Day 1/ Stop 1 – Ayala Museum

• Why it’s awesome: This museum will show you the best of Philippine history and art!
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Find your early morning fix at Cafe Breton which is just a few minutes’ walk from the museum. You can look forward to typical French cafe fare!

The Ayala Museum was founded by one of the Philippines’ leading families who also developed Makati into the vibrant area it is today! This museum is now one of the best Manila attractions to explore!

The six-story building is currently undergoing renovation (until 2020) but it’s still worth stopping by to admire the modern architecture. The museum’s exhibits are being displayed in schools and shopping centers, so take a look at the museum website to find out if there’s an exhibit planned during your vacation in Manila!

The stellar collection in the museum is the pre-Hispanic gold items, closely followed by delicate Ming porcelain! These precious artifacts pay tribute to the vibrant trading culture of the indigenous people!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Greenbelt

• Why it’s awesome: Greenbelt is a huge green lifestyle complex that’s perfect for relaxing!
• Food nearby: What better way to stroll around the park than with a gelato in hand? Get one of the delicious flavors from Gelatissimo which is right in the park!

Next up on your Manila itinerary is one of the city’s most famous green spaces which is known simply as Greenbelt . This massive park is a wonderful place to relax and refresh your body before carrying on with your Manila walking tour!

The shopping center was the original attraction of Greenbelt but it’s quickly been overshadowed by 3 hectares of verdant gardens! In the midst of all this greenery, you’ll find a number of cafes and bars, making this a very trendy area! The best thing to do is to take a stroll and then have a cold drink or ice cream!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Intramuros

• Why it’s awesome: This charming area has many beautiful Manila landmarks from the Spanish colonial era!
• Food nearby: The cozy interior of Bistro Marinero is the perfect setting for a variety of lunch dishes, accompanied by an excellent wine list!

No itinerary for Manila would be complete without a couple of hours spent exploring the historic district of Intramuros! Intramuros literally means ‘inside the walls’ in Spanish, referencing the district’s cherished location inside the Spanish fortifications!

Since this was the city center during that period, there is history around every corner! Unfortunately, many of these Manila landmarks were destroyed by American troops during World War II. Thanks to restoration efforts, the surviving monuments have been restored!

Of course, you’ll want to soak up the atmosphere of this neighborhood and experience some Manila things to do in the area! Visit the original Spanish walls, many parts of which are walkable. Also, wander around the Plaza de Roma and admire the statue of King Carlos IV!

Insider Tip: If you plan on bringing home souvenirs from your trip to Manila, Intramuros is the perfect place to shop! There are many trendy stores that have merged the best of Philippine tradition with modern design, resulting in unique items that your loved ones will truly appreciate! Manila Collectible Co. is a kind of one-stop-shop for souvenirs, selling local food ingredients and traditional handcrafts!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Fort Santiago

• Why it’s awesome: This imposing fort has been around since the 16th century!
• Cost: Entrance is $2 USD.
• Food nearby: Patio de Conchita is the ideal place to grab an early afternoon snack! They serve ice creams and beers, as well as warm meals.

Fort Santiago was constructed in 1590 and spans an incredible 2,030 feet! Its history and sheer size mean its a Manila point of interest  that you have to visit!

The fort is along the Pasig River and is surrounded by a moat. Visitors enter the fort through a fearsome gate which depicts St James, Spain’s patron saint, squashing Muslims under his horse. This image is appropriate for the site since Spain had just defeated the indigenous Muslim people at the site of the fort.

There are a host of dungeons and plazas to explore inside the fort but be sure to stop by the Baluarte de Santa Barbara. This platform extends over the Pasig River and is a great spot to take beautiful pictures of Manila!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – The Rizal Shrine

• Why it’s awesome: This site was once the prison of a prominent leader of the struggle for Philippine independence!
• Cost: $2 USD (included in the cost for Fort Santiago).
• Food nearby: You’ll find yummy local dishes at nearby Flower Stores!

Fort Santiago was once the prison of Jose Rizal, a nationalist leader of the struggle for independence from Spain. Rizal was executed for his work in 1896 and today his cell has become a kind of shrine to his beliefs!

Before entering Rizal’s prison cell, you have to go through the Contemplation Room. Quotes by Rizal on patriotism cover the room. It’s not possible to visit the actual cell where Rizal was held but there is a model of the room where you can see an artwork of Rizal sitting at his desk!

In the Chamber of Text and the Reliquary Room, you can learn more about Rizal’s life and ideology. This room houses a first edition of one of his novels, as well as engravings of his poetry. You can also see some of his clothing. The most precious artifact is a bone from Rizal’s body, in which you can still see a bullet!

Day 1 / Stop 6 – San Agustin Church and Museum

• Why it’s awesome: This stunning church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
• Food nearby: Try Jollibee EAC for some Filipino-style fast food . If it’s a taste of home you want, there’s also a nearby McDonald’s!

Built in 1607, San Agustin Church is the oldest church in the entire Philippines. It was one of the few buildings in Intramuros to survive World War II! It’s also a beautiful building that captures the imaginations of those touring Manila!

San Agustin Church boasts some stunning architectural features. Be sure to admire the intricate frescoes on the vaulted ceiling which are very life-like!

The San Agustin Museum holds a number of precious treasures owned by the church. The highlight is the Immaculate Statue which is made of ivory and has traces of Chinese influences! There’s also a giant bell that weighs 7495 pounds!

The staircase that ascends from the ground floor is also worth admiration as it was made of Cantonese granite back in the 18th century.

The museum is also home to a large collection of church vestments. The ornate robes are worn by priests and are works of art in their own right! You should definitely pop into the choir loft which boasts an amazing view of the church itself below! You can also be part of a tour.

Day 1 / Stop 7 – Manila Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: This has been an iconic landmark in Manila since the 16th century!
• Cost: Free (donations welcome)!
• Food nearby: Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant is the perfect place for a dinner celebrating the first day of your Manila trip itinerary! You can look forward to scrumptious Philippine and Asian cuisine!

The Manila Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica was first built in 1581 but, due to a series of disasters, it has been rebuilt eight times! The current one only opened in 1958, but it maintains the striking Neo-Romanesque style of its predecessors.

As the seat of the Archbishop of the Philippines, Manila Cathedral is suitably grand! The cathedral even counts the incumbent Pope Francis as one of its esteemed visitors! Be sure to admire the stained glass windows and vaulted ceiling. Consider taking a bike tour to explore this place.

Insider Tip: To really feel in awe of this impressive cathedral, try to attend a mass. This will allow you to experience the Cathedral as it was meant to be enjoyed and is a great way of joining in the local culture! You’ll find a schedule of mass services on the website or the cathedral’s noticeboard.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Chinatown | Malacañang Palace | Rizal Park | National Museum of Fine Arts | Manila Baywalk

Wondering what to see in Manila on your second day? Well, there’s a great combination of historical and natural landmarks on our 2-day itinerary in Manila!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Chinatown

• Why it’s awesome: Full of history, food, culture and lots of energy, Chinatown is a place you have to visit when in Manila!
• Food nearby: There’s a huge variety of great food in Chinatown. Dong Bei Dumplings is a local favorite that serves fresh dumplings made right before your eyes!

Start your day with a trip to Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world! There have been Chinese traders in Manila since the 9th century, making a visit to Chinatown something you must do on your Manila vacation!

Binondo was originally its own town, home to Hokkien Chinese traders. It grew throughout the Spanish colonial period and experienced its heyday during the 1930s. During this period, the Americans transformed the quarter into a commercial center, complete with luxury stores and gorgeous Art Deco buildings!

Binondo has since lost a lot of its former glamor but none of its energy! The best way of exploring this neighborhood is to take a horse-drawn carriage tour or just walk along the bustling streets. That said, there are a number of incredible things to do in Manila in this part of the city!

One of the major Manila landmarks in Binondo is the Arch of Goodwill. It’s one of the arches marking the boundary of Chinatown and was a gift to demonstrate the Chinese-Filipino friendship! Beyond the arch are Ongpin and Carvajal Streets. Here, expect to find traditional Chinese wares, such as traditional herbs. Go shopping in the colorful Feng Shui store near the arch. This is where local Chinese people buy Ying Yang charms and Feng Shui items!

It’s also worth putting the Temple of Kuang Kong on your itinerary for Manila! This temple is dedicated to the God of War who is also patron of martial arts and scholars. It’s a Buddhist temple where you can light incense, pray and have your fortunes told!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Malacañang Palace

• Why it’s awesome: This has been the official residence of the leader of the Philippines since the Spanish era!
• Food nearby: Inside the palace is Casa Roces. It’s a 1930s family home that’s been converted into a restaurant and cafe! Even if you’re not hungry, it’s worth stopping by to admire the stunning decor!

Admiring Malacañang Palace is one of the best things to do in Manila! Apart from its long history, the palace is also very beautiful.

You’ll find Malacañang Palace perched alongside the Pasig River and taking in the view from across the bank alone is half the fun! The palace was first constructed in 1750 and became the official summer residence of the Spanish governor-general in 1825. Like many Manila landmarks, it’s been damaged and restored several times throughout the centuries.

Malacañang Palace made headlines in 2016 when the newly elected president, Rodrigo Duterte, refused to move in, claiming that the palace was haunted! Even though he doesn’t live there, the president still uses the palace as an office so most of the complex is off-limits to visitors.

The Malacañang Museum is the main building open to tourists. It houses an impressive collection of memorabilia from the 16 Filippino presidents that have been in office since 1899.

You should also put it on your Manila itinerary to get a taste of the fabulous architecture in the palace — lookout for crystal chandeliers, gleaming wooden floors and paneling, and capiz windows (a traditional window made with oyster shells instead of glass)!

Insider Tip: To get inside the Malacañang Museum, you need to book at least five business days in advance. All you need to do is email the museum with your contact details, the number of people visiting, and copies of your passports!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Rizal Park

• Why it’s awesome: This gorgeous green space is also the burial place of national hero Jose Rizal!
• Food nearby: Rizal Park is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic while touring Manila! If you want a sit-down meal, try Angel’s Pizza and Pasta!

Spanning 58 hectares, Rizal Park is a refreshing public park in the heart of the urban Jungle! It’s also one of the most important historical Manila attractions, as it is the burial place of Jose Rizal!

The iconic Rizal Monument is something that has to be on your Manila itinerary! You’ll find this gigantic monument in the center of the park. A 150-foot flagpole marks the entrance and sentries in full military uniform guard the monument day and night by!

On one side of the monument is a plaque indicating the site of Rizal’s execution and an engraving of his final poem My Last Farewell . There are eight bronze statues around the column that depict the final moments of the nationalist hero’s life!

Nearby is the Central Lagoon. Busts of other Filipino heroes surround the pool and there is a dancing fountain that is illuminated with colorful lights at night!

On the eastern end of the park, outside the National Museum of Fine Arts is a statue of Lapu-Lapu, another Filippino hero. Lapu-Lapu was the ruler of Mactan and is seen as the first national hero since he was the first to resist Spanish colonization! Locals also celebrate him for killing Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan when he attempted to invade Mactan after locals refused to convert to Catholicism!

Insider Tip: If your trip to Manila falls on a weekend, rather visit Rizal Park later in the evening. Then, you can attend one of the free rock concerts on a Saturday night or a classical music concert on a Sunday night!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – National Museum of Fine Arts

• Why it’s awesome: This incredible museum is bursting with magnificent pieces of local art!
• Food nearby: Macau Imperial Tea is a great place for an afternoon snack and, of course, milk tea!

Next up on your Manila itinerary is the National Museum of Fine Arts, which is conveniently located on the edge of Rizal Park! With 2 days in Manila, you have to visit this museum to learn more about the Philippines’ art and culture scene!

The museum is housed in a striking Art Deco building but the true highlight is still the artworks! The galleries are organized around period, media and themes, so it’s easy to find art that interests you. There are, however, a number of absolute must-sees!

Portrait of a Lady by Juan Luna y Novicio is one of those pieces of art with a story! It’s rumored to bring misfortune to all of its owners, including its last owner, First Lady Imelda Marcos!

Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo’s La Barca de Aqueronte is another masterpiece to admire. The physicality of the painting won the artist plenty of awards and cemented his status as a great Filippino artist!

Painted during World War II, The Burning of Manila by Fernando Amorsolo y Cueto is a seminal work in the artist’s portfolio. The picture depicts Manila in flames, with locals fleeing the scene and is very evocative!

Another World War II-era painting to see is the violent Rape and Massacre in Ermita which vividly shows the real harm war does to families.

Finally, be sure to find Noli Me Tangere by Leonardo Cruz. It’s in a gallery dedicated to art inspired by Jose Rizal but even so, this piece stands out. It’s a beautiful compilation of scenes from Rizal’s work of the same name.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Manila Baywalk

• Why it’s awesome: This seaside promenade is a wonderful spot to watch the sunset in Manila!
• Food nearby: Manila Baywalk hosts many food vendors so it’s the perfect place to try Filippino fast food, such as roast chicken followed by coconut cakes for dessert!

Watching the sunset over one of the great Manila landmarks is the perfect close to your 2-day itinerary in Manila! The best place to do this is at the Manila Baywalk, a promenade that runs along the seaside in the city!

Manila Baywalk overlooks the Bay of Manila. This enclave was the scene of a naval battle between America and Spain in 1898 that effectively ended 300 years of Spanish rule in the Philippines! Appropriately, the promenade starts at the American Embassy.

The promenade stretches for around a mile, alongside Roxas Boulevard. Palm trees provide shade and there are plenty of ornamental plants. As evening starts, live musicians set up, making this a charming place to stroll during your weekend in Manila! (If you’re very sporty, it’s also the perfect spot to go jogging).

Restaurants, cafes, bars, and dancing spots line the beach strip if you want to spend the night in the area. At the southern end of Manila Baywalk is the harbor, where you can take a sunset cruise around the bay. Even if you’re not catching a boat, it’s worth exploring the picturesque harbor. Finally, find a bench and get your camera ready for a spectacular sunset!

Manila-Z-Hostel

This hostel has the perfect location in the central district of Makati! It’s consistently praised for its cleanliness and friendly staff. For more great hostel options, check out these great Filipino hostels.

• Free Breakfast

Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex | Manila Ocean Park | Divisoria Market | SM Mall of Asia | National Museum of the Filipino People

If you don’t know what to do in Manila for 3 days, then stick close to our suggestions! Our 3-day itinerary in Manila will give the best ideas for how to entertain yourself in this gorgeous city!

Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex

• This is Manila’s premier theater and movie cinema!
• The sprawling complex is home to six grand performance venues!
• Whether it’s ballet or film, there’s something for everyone at the Cultural Center!

Since its opening to the public in 1969, the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex has been the country’s top arts performance venue! It’s one of the loveliest places to visit in Manila and the best place to catch a show!

The Cultural Center was a pet project of President and First Lady Marcos and is considered emblematic of how Manila was at its best and most glamorous during the Marcos Era.

As well as being a performance venue, the complex is also home to a number of museums and galleries. You can explore the contemporary art museum, the ethnographic museum, as well as a number of exhibition galleries!

The architecture of the complex is also a great monument in itself. It was designed by esteemed Filippino architect Leandro Locsin. There are elements of the brutalist modern style (such as the heavy concrete and simple straight lines), as well as traditional Filipino features like the floating volume and a marble slab that has the appearance of floating in the air!

The best way to experience this venue is naturally to book a show! You can find classical music, theater, the National Ballet, and folk dance all at the Cultural Center. It’s the perfect treat to put on a 3-day itinerary in Manila!

Manila Ocean Park

• This huge aquarium is simply breathtaking!
• The aquarium is home to over 14 000 creatures!
• Ocean Park is one of the most fun things to do in Manila!

Manila’s Ocean Park is even bigger than Singapore’s and its size is echoed in the sheer diversity of creatures that call it home! It also runs lots of interactive public programs, making it the perfect place to visit with kids if you have 3 days in Manila!

The Oceanarium is one of the stellar Manila attractions you’ll visit. This aquarium focuses on marine life that is indigenous to the waters of South-East Asia. The water in the facility comes directly from Manila Bay and is filtered to suit the animals perfectly! In the midst of the aquarium is a 220° curved walkway tunnel. From here, you can see the marine life swimming blissfully overhead!

If you’d like to get into the water, you can book an Aquanaut Voyage. This experience allows you to explore inside the tanks with minimum effort, thanks to a special diving helmet that lets you breathe normally! You could also go for the Sharks & Rays Encounter, which lets you swim with these special creatures!

Another fun activity is a session on training sea lions. During this encounter, you can swim and perform a few tricks with the sea lions!

Divisoria Market

• Calling all shopaholics and bargain-hunters…you must put Divisoria on your Manila trip itinerary!
• This is where you will find everything you could need or want at the cheapest prices imaginable!
• The riot of color and noise inside the market make it an unforgettable experience from your Manila travels!

Divisoria Market dates back to the Spanish Era in Manila when people who weren’t Christians were forbidden from trading in Intramuros. Undeterred, they set up shop in Divisoria . The market is now one of the most vibrant and exciting attractions on any Manila itinerary!

When the nearby railway station opened at the start of the 20th century, Divisoria got a huge boost from the wholesale goods that were now easily available! Wholesalers still sell their wares at Divisoria, meaning things are even cheaper if you buy in bulk or know how to bargain!

You can find everything imaginable at Divisoria — whether that’s clothes, toys, crafts or electronics! The bustling atmosphere of buying and bargaining can be infectious, pushing you to buy things you don’t need. Rather set a budget and take the exact cash with you so you’re not tempted to overspend!

Divisoria Market is also a great place to try some local street food at really affordable prices. Just remember to bring some bottled water along!

SM Mall of Asia

• This is the fourth largest mall in the Philippines and one of the largest in the world!
• It’s more than just a mall, with plenty of tourist attractions too!
• The 2-story entertainment complex could occupy you for days!

SM Mall of Asia may seem like an unusual place to include on your Manila itinerary, but there are so many fun things to do there!

Of course, there is a huge range of shops and restaurants to discover but that’s really just a sideshow! What you want to do here is visit the entertainment complex!

The entertainment complex is home to the first ice rink in the Philippines and IMAX movie theaters. There’s also a small amusement park outside! The mall is located right beside the Bay of Manila and offers great views of the sea! If you’re not up for the rides, it’s also a good place to picnic or sit on a bench with ice cream and enjoy the seaside breeze!

SM Mall of Asia is a great place to come to watch the sunset. On weekends, there are even firework displays in the evenings! If that doesn’t interest you, then avoid the weekend crowds and visit during the week.

National Museum of the Filipino People

• This massive museum houses archaeological artifacts from across the country’s history!
• There’s a large collection of stunning precious items like jewelry and porcelain!
• All of this is free to visit!

Also known as the National Museum of Anthropology, this amazing museum is a stellar curation of the Philippines’ history through fascinating objects! It’s a must while you’re in the Manila city center!

The ground floor is dedicated to the San Diego Exhibit which centers around a collection of 5,000 objects retrieved from the shipwreck of San Diego which sunk in 1,600 after a battle with the Dutch! There are common items like hazelnuts and chicken bones but also more valuable items. Tons of precious Chinese porcelain, rosaries and silver goblets are some of the highlights. You can also admire eleven canons!

The gallery of Five Centuries of Maritime Trade Before the Arrival of the West does exactly what its long name indicates! Items like gold and porcelain bring the South-East Asian trade routes to life!

The Filipinos and Their Rich Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Treasures galleries focus on indigenous cultures and artifacts. One of the fascinating highlights is the Ayub Cave jars which date from 5 BCE! People would rebury the bones of their ancestors in these jars.

The Origin Gallery is also an intriguing trip through history in the pre-historic era! Here you can come up close to the skullcap of the earliest known inhabitant of the Philippines, the Tabon Man, who lived in 24000 BCE!

It’s always a good idea to learn more about safety when you’re planning a trip to Manila. Manila may not be a particularly violent city but there are petty crimes and health hazards that you should be aware of! Manila is mostly safe to visit.

As a tourist, you tend to see the wealthier parts of Manila, but the city is also home to a large population of very poor citizens and theft is common. Keep your belongings close, avoid walking around at night, and try not to wear expensive jewelry which could make you an obvious target!

Be careful of where you draw money or change currency. Avoid making currency exchanges at facilities that aren’t banks since you could be overcharged. It’s also best to only make ATM withdrawals at ATMs in banks or hotels so that you avoid those that are rigged to read your card information!

If you’re only in town for a short period, it isn’t worth putting your body through the challenge of acclimatizing to local tap water. The tap water is generally safe but foreign bacteria could make you feel queasy at first so stick to bottled water.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Manila

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Whether it’s hiking, canoeing or relaxing in a resort, there are some incredible things to do near Manila! The most convenient way of exploring the surrounding areas is to go on one or two awesome day trips from Manila!

Taal Volcano Full-Day Adventure Tour from Manila

Taal Volcano is a such a popular attraction with those who visit Manila that it has to be on your Manila itinerary!

This is one of the greatest day trips from Manila, during which you can come up close to the Philippines’ second most active volcano! The volcano is atop an island that you can reach via boat. After that, it’s time to climb this terrific mountain! If you want more of a challenge, try taking a horse ride to the top! The panoramic views and crisp fresh air are the highlights of this epic trip!

Full-Day Tour Villa Escudero Plantation

Outside of Manila is countryside so peaceful you will find it hard to believe that there’s a massive city just a few hours away! The area is home to plantations where you can experience rural life while on vacation in Manila!

Escudero Coconut Plantation is a tourist-friendly estate that teaches you about the history of coconut farming in the Philippines, as well as showing you how it’s done! There’s also a private museum that houses the family’s collection of historical artifacts dating from pre-Hispanic times! As if that’s not enough, you can enjoy a swim in one of the pools or lagoons on the estate!

From Manila: Majestic Pagsanjan Falls Adventure

Visiting Pagsanjan Falls is one of the most incredible things to do in the Philippines! It’s located in the Pagsanjan Gorge National Park, a beautiful landscape of forests and waterfalls!

The best way to immerse yourself in the park’s breathtaking environment is on a canoe trip! You can hire an indigenous dug-out canoe, steered by two boatmen and explore the stunning area.

Behind the 300-foot waterfall is a cave of water in which you can swim or explore on a bamboo raft. This is an exhilarating experience that will stay with you long after your Manila travel experience ends!

From Manila: Full Day Trip to Tagaytay Ridge

Just an hour and a half outside of Manila is the city of Tagaytay, which is surrounded by the majestic Tagaytay Ridge. Here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the encircling landscape, including Taal Volcano !

Along the way, you’ll also stop by Las Pinas to explore the iconic San Jose Church. It’s home to an organ made entirely out of bamboo! A Spanish priest created this unique instrument in the 19th century and it produces a special sound!

This trip also makes time to visit a jeepney assembly plant where you can learn more about this classic Filipino transport method!

Subic Bay Adventure

The 75-mile journey to Subic Bay is undoubtedly one of the best day trips from Manila! This gorgeous region is also full of military history!

Subic Bay was once the biggest American naval facility in the Asian-Pacific region until a volcano erupted in 1991. The government later redeveloped the area into a port and tourism zone.

The eruption of Mt. Pinatubo was the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. Learn more about the havoc it caused before relaxing in the gorgeous nature!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Manila itinerary.

What can you do in Manila for free?

Most things! But head to the Intramuros area of the city to soak in the stunning Spanish colonial architecture and the buzzing streets surrounding it.

Is Manilla worth visiting?

It’s definitely worth a couple of days to see another and a more real side to this incredible and fascinating country.

Where in Manila is Instagrammable?

The colourful buildings of Manila’s Chinatown and the local Dong Bei Dumplings will give you heaps of content!

Where do couples go in Manila?

Couples will love a romantic stroll along Manila Baywalk at sunset on their Manila Itinerary.

Conclusion of Manila Itinerary

From museums to green spaces and churches to bars, there is something for everyone in Manila! With so many fabulous activities and attractions on our Manila itinerary, you’ll never need to wonder what to do in Manila, Philippines next!

Manila is often overlooked as a holiday destination in favor of its glamorous neighbors, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, but it has so much to offer that no-one will ever regret a Manila trip! Larger-than-life heroes and monumental battles fill the city’s long history. Combine this with the many diverse cultures that have called Manila home over the centuries, and you have a truly cosmopolitan city!

Whether you’re in and out of Manila in a day or staying longer, we can promise an awesome trip with our epic Manila itinerary! 

Rhenz Caguioa

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Things To Do In Manila

Top hotel collections.

Near Manila Ocean Park

Near Manila Bay

Near Manila Cathedral

Near Intramuros Manila

• Filter (31)
• Church & Cathedral (4)
• Shopping Mall (4)
• Sightseeing (4)

1. Explore Intramuros

2 km from city center 1 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Intramuros is the historic walled city of Manila dating back to the Spanish occupation. Once the city center, it is still the heart of Manila. Explore the old-world charm of Intramuros with cobbled streets lined with old Spanish houses. Some of the most popular attractions of Manila are located here, including Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, San Agustin Museum, and Casa Manila.

2. Visit Casa Manila Museum

1 km from city center 2 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Casa Manila is a stately museum situated on General Luna Street within the walled city of Intramuros. Constructed in 1980 by Imelda Marcos, the regal building boasts Spanish colonial architecture. It is designed to replicate the 1850s San Nicolas House that once existed in Calle Jaboneros and depicts the colonial lifestyle of the Filipinos during the Spanish colonization of the state.

3. Walk Around Binondo

1 km from city center 3 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Binondo is Manila's Chinatown, lined with quaint cafes and affordable eateries. Established in 1594, it is the world’s oldest Chinatown. The street is flanked by cozy shops of goldsmiths, tea houses, herbalists, bakeries, incense sticks, and the like. The Seng Guan Temple and the Kuang Kong Temple are also located here.

4. Admire San Agustin Church

2 km from city center 4 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located inside the walled city of Intramuros in Metro Manila, San Agustin Church is the oldest church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boasting a Baroque style of architecture, it was built between 1587 and 1606. The Roman Catholic church houses the San Agustin Museum and tombs of several historical figures, including conquistadors, statesmen, artists, etc.

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2 km from city center 5 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located adjacent to San Agustin Church on General Luna St. in Intramuros, San Agustin Museum is a treasure trove of religious art pieces showcasing the rich history of Catholicism in the Philippines. The gallery and the hallways are adorned with paintings of the saints. The most popular relics include ceramics, liturgical goods, botanical drawings, and antique furniture.

6. Shopping At Robinsons Place Mall

3 km from city center 6 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Situated behind the Philippine General Hospital and the University of the Philippines Manila, Robinsons Place is the largest serving mall in Manila. Sprawling over a wide 240,000 sq. meters, the seven-storeyed mall has many stores with premium merchandise, apparel, shoes, cosmetics, etc. There is also multi-story parking and an enormous food court to cater to your hunger pangs after you are done shopping.

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7. Walk Through Glass Tunnel At Manila Ocean Park

3 km from city center 7 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Manila Ocean Park is one of the premiere marine-themed parks in the Philippines, located behind Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park area of Manila. The oceanarium houses more than 13000 sea creatures from 277 species. The prime highlight is its 25-meter glass tunnel. Besides the sharks, eels, and stingrays floating above, beside, and in front of you, you can also slip on a mermaid suit and watch the penguins in a freezing cold temperature.

8. Watch Sunset From Manila Baywalk

3 km from city center 8 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Known to be a perfect leisure spot and a popular site to witness splendid sunsets, Baywalk is a beautiful seaside esplanade overlooking Manila Bay. Peppered with open-air cafes and local buskers, the place remains crowded. The promenade bustles with activity all day long, which includes song and dance performances by local street artists, local food stalls and kiosks, eateries and food vans, meme artists, acrobats, and the like.

9. Fun Day At Star City

5 km from city center 9 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located in Pasay in Metro Manila, Star City is one of the biggest, most popular, and all-weather, air-conditioned amusement parks in the Philippines. Sprawling over a whopping 380,000 sq. ft., the park is thronged by 1.5 million people annually owing to its gorgeous theme decor and over 30 thrilling rides and attractions. There are coin-operated machine games, Snow Land, Lazer Blaster, Walk on Water, etc.

10. Shop & Eat At Divisoria Market

2 km from city center 10 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Considered the “Mother of all Markets” in Manila, Divisoria is a popular flea market in Chinatown. There are stalls selling clothes, bags, garments, footwear, textiles, accessories, food items, electronic equipment, crafts, home decor items, kitchenware, and the like. The market is also popular for its delicious street food

11. Enjoy A Jeepney Ride

11 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Popularly known as the ‘Filipino Jeepney’, the graffiti-splashed jeepneys is the highlight of Manila. The most common mode of public transport in Manila, the jeepneys are stretched versions of military jeeps that were used by the Americans in World War II. The seats accommodate up to 10 passengers per side (some longer ones accommodate 20 passengers per side) and can be stopped by the wave of a hand anywhere on the streets.

12. Visit Greenbelt Chapel

7 km from city center 12 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Greenbelt Chapel is located within the Ayala Center, also known as the Chapel of Santo Niño de Paz, and is a green oasis in Manila. Unlike the traditional Catholic churches, this one is open air, with a concrete dome, and it resembles mostly a pavilion than a traditional church with thick enclosed walls. The park is an idyllic escape, surrounded by a tranquil pond, green plants, and spectacular sculptures.

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13. National Museum of Fine Arts Manila

1 km from city center 13 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Formerly known as the National Art Gallery, the National Museum of Fine Arts is a popular art museum across from the National Museum of Anthropology on Padre Burgos Avenue in Rizal Park in Manila. It houses stunning paintings and colossal artworks from contemporary and classical Filipino artists like Juan Luna, Félix Resurrección Hidalgo, Guillermo Tolentino, etc.

14. Relax At Arroceros Forest Park

14 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Situated on Antonio Villegas Street (formerly known as Calle Arroceros) in the central district of Ermita in Manila, Arroceros Forest Park is a hidden secret and a verdant oasis. Sheltering a wide variety of ornamental plants and some very rare breeds of avifauna, it is also dubbed as ‘Manila’s last lung’ as it is the only nature park in the city.

15. Visit Manila Cathedral

1 km from city center 15 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Situated in the Plaza Roma in the walled city of Intramuros, Manila Cathedral is the main Roman Catholic church and Basilica in Metro Manila, Philippines. Officially known as the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Manila, regarded as the Roman Catholic Primate of the Philippines.

16. Stroll Around Rizal Park

2 km from city center 16 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Popularly known as Luneta Park, Rizal Park is Manila’s most iconic urban central park on Roxas Blvd in Malate. Specially dedicated to Jose Rizal- the Filipino nationalist and freedom fighter- the park's highlight is the central Rizal Monument that houses the mortal remains of Jose Rizal. The urban park is one of Asia's largest green spaces, boasting ornamental lawns, shining fountains, well-groomed flower beds, and paved walkways.

17. Shopping At Mall of Asia

7 km from city center 17 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located in the Pasay district of Manila, SM Mall of Asia is the fourth-largest mall in the Philippines. Sprawling over a humongous 4659600 sq. ft., the mall is divided into four sections- the Main Mall, Entertainment Mall, and the South and North Parking Buildings, which are connected via walkways that cater to several options for shopping, entertainment, and leisure activities, etc.

18. Visit Fort Santiago

2 km from city center 18 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Situated within the walled city of Intramuros in Manila, Fort Santiago is a magnificent citadel constructed on the banks of the River Pasig just off Manila Bay. Originally built by Spanish navigator and governor Miguel López de Legazpi as a defense fortress. The highlight of Fort Santiago is the Rizal Shrine Museum which houses memorabilia and relics of Jose Rizal - the Filipino nationalist and freedom fighter.

19. National Museum of the Philippines

1 km from city center 19 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

The National Museum of the Philippines successfully documents the ethnographic, anthropological, archaeological, natural history, and visual arts of the Philippines. It showcases local Filipino artists from the 17th and 20th centuries.

20. Explore Bonifacio Global City

10 km from city center 20 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Bonifacio Global City, also known as the Global City or The Fort, or simply BGC, is a shopping, tourism, entertainment, and dining destination in Manila. It is known for its glitzy malls, global restaurants, cocktail bars, hip cafes, and popular nightclubs.

21. Discover Open Air Cafes At Manila Bay

3 km from city center 21 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Sprawling over an area of 769 sq. meters, Manila Bay is one of the city's busiest and top commercial spots. Extending into southwestern Luzon Island, the bay is completely landlocked and is one of the hot leisure spots in the city, which is also known for its fabulous sunsets. You can sit, relax and dine at the at any of the many open-air cafes, restaurants and bars present at the sidewalk

22. Ayala Museum

7 km from city center 22 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Situated next to the Greenbelt Mall within the Ayala Complex in Makati, Ayala Museum showcases ancient and contemporary relics of Filipino culture, art, and history. The highlight of the repository is the exhibition of the 60 magnificent dioramas, efficiently and picturesquely tracing the country’s history. Among the popular displays are the pre- Hispanic gold jewelry, rotating art exhibits, and the stunning textile collection, etc.

23. Tour The Chinese Cemetery

4 km from city center 23 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Popularly called “Millionaires' Row” and “Little Beverley Hills”, the Chinese Cemetery is a luxuriant resting place built to bury the wealthy Chinese citizens who were refused burial in the traditional Catholic cemeteries during the Spanish colonial period. The place is flanked by posh villas and gorgeous houses that are mausoleums. These houses are occupied by the relatives of the deceased, who visit the tombs occasionally to offer prayers.

24. Paco Park

2 km from city center 24 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located on General Luna Street in Paco, Manila, Paco Park is a green oasis and a recreational park based on the ground, which was once the municipal cemetery of Manila. The circular park has unmarked graves of the three ancient priests and has a significant history to tell. It also has a shrine dedicated to Dr Jose Rizal- the Philippines’ national hero- and a Roman Catholic chapel dedicated to St. Pancratius.

25. Try Seafood At Dampa Seaside

6 km from city center 25 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Situated between Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila and the Manila Film Center at the CCP Complex, Dampa Seaside, also known as the Pasay Seafood Market is a seafood market with a host of dine-in restaurants. Considered to be a treasure of good quality seafood like scallops and mantis, shrimp, oysters, lobsters, squids, stonefish, and red frog crabs.

26. Greenbelt Mall

7 km from city center 26 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located in the Ayala Centre in Makati, Greenbelt is a magnanimous mall in Metro Manila. Sprawling over vast acres of land, the complex comprises five separate buildings with their own unique architecture and features. Opened in 1988, two of the buildings provide open-air shopping facilities while two others are enclosed, and the latest one opened just recently in 2007.

27. Quiapo Church

0 km from city center 27 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Canonically known as Parish of Saint John the Baptist, Quiapo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene is a prominent Catholic Church situated on Quezon Blvd in Metro Manila. The church houses the famous Black Nazarene- the black life-sized statue of Jesus Christ kneeling and carrying the cross. The statue is supposed to be miraculous and is the reason why tourists and believers equally visit the church.

28. Malacañang Palace

1 km from city center 28 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Malacanang Palace is the official residence and principal workplace of the President of the Philippines. The only part open to public visits is the Museo ng Malacañang- the museum inside the building that displays interesting historical facts and fascinating memorabilia about the past presidents and rulers of the Philippines.

29. Manila Zoo

4 km from city center 29 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located in Malate in Manila, Philippines, Manila Zoo (formerly known as Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden) is a 14-acre zoo boasting rich wildlife. The zoo also houses the Wildlife Rescue Centre, which helps rescue injured, sick, and abandoned animals. In addition to that, it also has two aviaries. The highlight of the Manila Zoo is the Asian Elephant named Mali.

30. SM Megamall

8 km from city center 30 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located in the Ortigas Business District in Mandaluyong City in Metro Manila, SM Megamall is the second-largest shopping mall in the Philippines. It originally had two buildings- Mega Building A and Mega Building B, but over time the mall expanded, and currently, it has five buildings.

31. Bahay Tsinoy (Temporarily Closed)

1 km from city center 31 out of 31 Things To Do in Manila

Located in Intramuros, Bahay Tsinoy is an age-old museum housed within the premises of the Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Center building. It documents the history and contributions of the Chinese in the past life and development of the Philippines. The repository houses several dioramas, sculptures, porcelain collections, pictures, and old coins that help depict the contribution of the sangleys (Chinese, as called by the Spanish) in the growth of the city of Manila.

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More things to know before you go to manila: hidden urban gems.

The Philippine capital is truly chaotic— of course, mostly in a good way! Weave your way through the urban bustle with these essential things to know before you go to Manila.

Manila , the pulsating heart of the Philippines, is not just about 500,000 square-foot malls and tales of long gone eras. It’s a city teeming with hidden spots— from tranquil green oases to off-the-beaten-path art galleries. 

As we take a detour from the familiar tourist paths , let insiders tell you the best things to know before you go to Manila, that can guide your journey to discovering its many concealed wonders!

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

Planning your trip to Manila requires careful consideration on when to visit and how to budget for your stay. Of course, add to that choosing the right accommodation to suit your needs. 

So, without further ado, here are a few essential things to know before you go to Manila:

When to Go and How to Budget

• Best Seasons: The dry months from December to February offer comfortable exploring weather. A word of caution, though: Manila can be quite crowded during these months due to the long Yuletide celebrations and influx of tourists to major tourism spots like Baguio or the beaches.
• Budgeting: Set aside PHP 1500-2500 ($30-$50) daily for a deep dive into local life, including visits to lesser-known sites.

Where to Stay

• Budget-friendly: SM Southmall Couple Suite provides a cozy base with easy access to local life in the quieter parts of the city.
• Mid-range: Azumi Boutique Hotel stands out with its minimalist charm and proximity to Alabang’s hidden culinary spots.
• Upscale: The North-West Loft places you in the heart of Manila with a stunning view, perfect for those who wish to explore Manila’s upscale yet understated side.

How to Get Around

The city’s lesser-known areas are best navigated by a mix of walking and local transport. For ease, download the Grab app for reliable and safe travel options to hidden gems (while also serving as your food delivery app too!)

CULTURE & INTERACTION

Understanding the local customs and language when in Manila can truly enrich your experience and facilitate smoother interactions. 

Keep these things to know before you go to Manila in mind.

Local Customs and Etiquette

• Greetings: Warm yet respectful; a slight nod with a smile goes a long way.
• Dress Codes: Casual wear is widely acceptable, but modest attire is appreciated in less touristy areas, schools, offices, and sacred places.

Language Tips

• Many are still surprised how English is widely spoken. That’s because many Filipinos learn it as their second language at school. Still, learning basic Tagalog phrases like “ Kumusta ” (How are you?) can truly enrich your interactions and world vocabulary. A translation app can also help with specific local dialects.

EXPLORING & EXPERIENCING

Manila is a city teeming with activities and cultural sites that cater to all types of travelers. 

Here’s a quick list on what you can explore to make the most of your visit, including more things to know before you go to Manila.

Must-Visit Attractions

• Paco Park: A circular park that’s a former burial ground, now a venue for quiet afternoons and occasional concerts.
• Escolta Street : Explore Manila’s old downtown area for a glimpse into its architectural past with a twist of modern-day artistic pop-ups.
• La Mesa Eco Park : An ecological nature reserve offering hiking, swimming, and picnicking in an expansive forest setting, perfect for those looking to escape the urban hustle .
• Mystery Manila : Challenge yourself with interactive escape room games that are a thrilling way to explore the city’s creative side.
• Bahay Tsinoy : A museum detailing the Chinese influence in Filipino culture, offering insights into the intertwined histories of the two cultures in a less frequented setting.

Food and Drink

• Venture into Kapitolyo in Pasig, for a range of under-the-radar dining spots known for innovative Filipino cuisine.
• For a local brew, visit The Curator for coffee by day and cocktails by night.

Local Experiences

• Binondo Food Crawl : Delve into Manila’s Chinatown for an authentic fusion food crawl.
• Art in Island: An interactive 3D art museum that offers quirky photo opportunities and artistic fun.

STAYING SAFE & HEALTHY

While Manila is generally safe, it’s always best to keep your personal belongings secure when in public. With that, do stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas. Stick to bottled water and ensure you have travel health insurance. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended for all travelers.

Discover All the Things to Know Before You Go to Manila with ThisCityKnows

Manila’s hidden gems provide a unique lens through which to view this dynamic city, from its serene parks to bustling local eateries . Armed with these things to know before you go to Manila, you’re set to uncover the layers that make this metropolis truly captivating.

Eager for an adventure off the typical tourist radar? 

Plan your travels with ThisCityKnows and let us lead you to the lesser-known corners of Manila. Dive deeper into the city’s heart with us, and experience Manila with ThisCityKnows as your trusted guide.

A city girl through and through, Patty has always planned her adventures in and around urban areas. Through her travel writing, she aims to make a compelling case for the global city as a place of endless discovery and satisfaction. Her goal is to detail how urban exploration can fulfill the desires of anyone and everyone, from cultural and culinary adventurers to historical and supernatural enthusiasts.

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Top 10 Manila Tourist Attractions You Don’t Wanna Miss

Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, is a city teeming with history, culture, and modernity. From its Spanish colonial heritage to its bustling metropolis filled with skyscrapers, Manila offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to every traveler's interests. Traveloka will take you on an adventure of exploring the top 10 Manila tourist attractions, showcasing the city's rich tapestry of experiences and landmarks.

1. Intramuros: The Walled City

Shutterstock.com

Location: Intramuros, Manila

Step back in time and explore the historic heart of Manila at Intramuros, also known as the Walled City. Built during the Spanish colonial period, Intramuros is surrounded by massive stone walls and fortifications that once served as the seat of government and military power. Today, you can wander through cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings, visit iconic landmarks such as Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, and immerse yourself in Manila's colonial past.

2. Rizal Park (Luneta Park)

Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila

Named in honor of the Philippines' national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, Rizal Park, or Luneta Park, is a sprawling green space that serves as a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Family groups can stroll through lush gardens, relax by the reflecting pools and fountains, and pay homage to the monument of Rizal at the park's center. Rizal Park also offers panoramic views of Manila Bay, making it an ideal spot to catch a stunning sunset. What a lovely moment with beloved family!

3. Ocean Park

Location: 666 Behind Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila

Experience the wonders of the underwater world at Manila Ocean Park, a premier marine-themed attraction located along Manila Bay. Home to a diverse collection of marine life, including sharks, rays, jellyfish, and colorful coral reefs, Manila Ocean Park offers immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and thrilling animal encounters. Highlights include the Oceanarium, Penguin Exhibit, and Sea Lion Show, providing visitors of all ages with an unforgettable aquatic adventure.

4. National Museum Complex

Location: P. Burgos Drive, Rizal Park, Manila

Delve into the art, history, and culture of the Philippines at the National Museum Complex, a group of museums located in the heart of Manila. Highlights include the National Museum of Fine Arts, which houses a collection of Filipino artworks spanning centuries, the National Museum of Anthropology, which showcases indigenous artifacts and cultural heritage, and the National Museum of Natural History, which features interactive exhibits on the country's biodiversity and geology.

5. Manila Baywalk

Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila

Manila Baywalk is another one of the places to visit in Manila, where you can go on a relaxing walk and soak in the sights and sounds of the waterfront promenade. Stretching along Roxas Boulevard, Manila Baywalk offers stunning views of Manila Bay, with its iconic sunset providing a picturesque backdrop for evening walks. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor dining at waterfront restaurants, street performances by local artists, and recreational activities such as biking and jogging.

6. San Agustin Church

Location: General Luna St, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Marvel at the grandeur of San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Located within the walls of Intramuros, San Agustin Church dates back to the 16th century and features a magnificent Baroque-style facade, intricately carved wooden interiors, and a beautiful courtyard. Visitors can explore the church's rich history and architectural beauty through guided tours and religious services.

7. Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Location: Manila, Philippines

Experience the modern side of Manila at Bonifacio Global City (BGC), a bustling business and lifestyle district known for its skyscrapers, shopping malls, and entertainment venues. BGC offers a vibrant mix of dining options, from upscale restaurants to trendy cafes and food parks, as well as cultural attractions such as The Mind Museum and Bonifacio High Street. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities at parks and green spaces dotted throughout the area.

8. Quiapo Church

Location: 910 Plaza Miranda, Quiapo, Manila 1001

Pay a visit to Quiapo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, one of the most famous Catholic churches in Manila. Located in the bustling district of Quiapo, the church is renowned for its centuries-old statue of the Black Nazarene, believed to have miraculous powers. Every January, millions of devotees participate in the Feast of the Black Nazarene, a religious procession that draws pilgrims from across the country.

9. Ayala Museum

photosounds / Shutterstock.com

Location: Manila, the Philippines

Immerse yourself in Filipino art, history, and culture at the Ayala Museum, a premier cultural institution located in Makati City, Manila's central business district. The museum's exhibits showcase a wide range of artifacts and artworks, including pre-colonial artifacts, religious art, and contemporary Philippine art. Check out the Gold of Ancestors exhibit, which offers visitors to see ancient gold artifacts, and the Diorama Experience, which offers a glimpse into key moments in Philippine history.

10. Manila Cathedral

Location: Sto. Tomas, Intramuros, Manila

Admire the beauty of Manila Cathedral, a stunning example of Neo-Romanesque architecture located in Intramuros. Originally built in the 16th century, the cathedral has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries and remains one of the most iconic landmarks in Manila. Visitors can marvel at its intricate stained glass windows, ornate altars, and majestic dome, as well as attend Mass and religious services.

These places to visit in Manila offer a wealth of cultural, historical, and recreational attractions that cater to every traveler's interests. You can explore the colonial charm of Intramuros, soaking in the natural beauty of Rizal Park, or immersing yourself in the art and culture of the National Museum Complex.

Activities and Places To Visit in Manila

In Manila, a bustling metropolis teeming with history, culture, and excitement, there's never a shortage of things to do. Other than visiting the above tourist attractions, check out this overview of some of other activities and attractions in Manila .

Maximize Your Adventure with Hotels Near Manila Tourist Attractions

Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, choosing the right hotel can enhance your experience by providing convenient access to Manila's top tourist spots. From luxury accommodations to budget-friendly hotels, here's a roundup of the top hotels in Manila located near popular attractions.

1. The Manila Hotel

As one of the oldest and most prestigious hotels in Manila, The Manila Hotel offers timeless elegance and luxurious amenities. Situated along the scenic Manila Bay, this iconic hotel provides easy access to Rizal Park, where you can explore historical landmarks like the Rizal Monument and enjoy walks in the sprawling gardens. Intramuros, another must-visit attraction, is just a short distance away, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Manila's colonial past.

The Manila Hotel

One Rizal Park, Ermita

2. Bayleaf Intramuros

Located within the historic walls of Intramuros, Bayleaf Hotel combines modern comfort with a touch of heritage charm. From its rooftop deck, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Manila's skyline and iconic landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church. With its central location, exploring the cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture of Intramuros becomes effortless, making Bayleaf Hotel an ideal choice for history enthusiasts.

The Bayleaf Intramuros

Muralla corner Victoria Street, Intramuros

3. New World Manila Bay Hotel

Conveniently situated in the heart of Manila, New World Manila Bay Hotel offers upscale accommodations and easy access to the city's top attractions. Just a stone's throw away from the hotel, visitors can immerse themselves in the underwater wonders of Manila Ocean Park or experience the vibrant arts scene at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. After a day of exploration, guests can unwind in the hotel's luxurious rooms or indulge in world-class dining options.

4. Diamond Hotel Philippines

Overlooking the picturesque Manila Bay, Diamond Hotel Philippines exudes elegance and sophistication. With its prime location, guests can enjoy leisurely walks along the Manila Baywalk or delve into the fascinating exhibits at the nearby National Museum of Anthropology. After a day of sightseeing, guests can retreat to the hotel's serene oasis, complete with luxurious amenities and impeccable service.

Diamond Hotel Philippines

Roxas Boulevard corner Dr. J. Quintos Street, Ermita

5. Hop Inn Hotel Ermita Manila

For budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort and convenience, Hop Inn Hotel Ermita Manila offers excellent value for money. Located in the vibrant Ermita district, the hotel provides easy access to attractions like Rizal Park and Manila Ocean Park, allowing guests to explore the city's highlights without breaking the bank. With its clean and comfortable rooms, Hop Inn Hotel is the perfect home base for budget travelers looking to make the most of their Manila adventure.

Hop Inn Hotel Ermita Manila

1850 M.H del Pilar Street

Whether you're drawn to Manila's rich history, stunning architecture, or vibrant culture, staying at one of these top hotels near tourist attractions ensures a memorable and convenient experience. With their prime locations, luxurious amenities, and warm Filipino hospitality, these hotels offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your Manila getaway. Be sure to book your flight to Manila with Traveloka, your best gateway to wonderful Southeast Asia!

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18 Most Budget-Friendly Places To Visit In The Philippines

• The Philippines offers a wide range of budget-friendly destinations for travelers, including Coron, Palawan, Vigan, and Catanduanes.
• These destinations offer stunning natural landscapes, historical sites, and affordable accommodations, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
• From private boat rides in Coron to colonial vibes in Vigan and island hopping in Catanduanes, there are plenty of activities to enjoy while keeping costs low in the beautiful country of the Philippines.

The Philippines is composed of over 7,640 islands; hence, there is much to explore . It is one of the ideal destinations for travelers on a budget, and it features a wide range of choices for a budget-friendly vacation. The country has diverse tourism featuring various mountains, rich in marine life, history, and stunning views. To further explore the country, listed below are the cheapest places to visit in the beautiful country of the Philippines.

UPDATE: 2023/09/12 16:45 EST BY JASON DOOKERAN

A Few More Budget-Friendly Locations to Check Out in the Philippines

With so much to see, there's no shortage of budget-friendly spots to visit. This update offers four more budget-friendly locations. All accommodations mentioned were chosen due to several factors, chief among them being a minimum rating of 7.0 and a budget-friendly price for travelers.

Coron, Palawan

The island of Palawan is the country’s hidden gem , and by that, it means hidden beaches and water caves. Its white-sand beaches and turquoise-clear waters are surrounded by lush green forests and rock formations. Coron offers a more adventurous experience than other beaches on the island of Palawan. It is indeed a haven, especially for honeymooners, because it’s like the Maldives but cheaper and more private. A private boat ride only costs $43 and is still negotiable; tourists can also bring food or let the crews cook without having the need to pay additional charges.

• Recommended Tour: Coron Island Tour ( A Shared Tour)
• Duration: 8 hours
• Cost: From $29 USD per adult

Book this tour

RELATED: Heading To The Philippines? You Gotta Try These Popular Street Foods

One of the most iconic travel destinations in the Philippines is the historic city of Vigan. The city is highly historical because Spanish Spaniards settled in the city during the Spanish colonization of the Philippines. In fact, it is included in the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites ; the city truly gives a colonial vibe. The Liberation Boulevard is a perfect accommodation place for travelers on a budget; it features comfortable transient rooms to stay.

• Recommended Tour: Vigan & Laoag Private Tour
• Duration: 5-8 hours
• Cost: From $202.67 per adult

Catanduanes

One of the most visited islands by couples is the island province of Catanduanes, which is also said to be one of the cheapest destinations in the country. Catanduanes features its wonderful pastoral hills and mountainside as well as a beautiful coastline. The best thing to enjoy here includes island hopping on Palumbanes Islands, surfing, and locating the tidal pools within the region. The cost of the accommodation only ranges from $10 to $24 per night.

• Recommended Tour: Catanduanes 360 Full-Day Tour
• Cost: From $140 USD per adult, depending on the group's size

Antipolo City

Antipolo City is the capital of Rizal Province; it is a go-to destination for people coming from Manila for getaways. The city features fascinating landscapes and has an elevated topography, making it a perfect escape from the metro. Plenty of affordable resorts and cozy cafes can be found in Antipolo, and these are all budget-friendly. Maura’s Place offers stunning panoramic sunset views of the city. One of the most known resorts here is the Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa, with a starting price of $17 per night.

• Recommended Tour: Skip the Line: Hike, Eat Swim at Mount Purro Nature Reserve
• Duration: 2-10 hours
• Cost: From $21.8 USD per adult

RELATED: Philippines Vs. Indonesia: Where You Should Go, And Why

San Juan, Siquijor

The mysterious island of Siquijor is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the Philippines. When people visit Siquijor, most of them would stay in the town of San Juan because it offers very dramatic sunset views, which visitors love the most. Another reason for staying in San Juan is highly affordable hotels and resorts from $14 per night, and most of these are beachfront or located near the coastline. The best tourist attractions here are Cambugahay Falls, Paliton, Butterfly Sanctuary, Salagdoong Cliff Jump, and many more waterfalls and beaches.

• Recommended Tour: Siquijor Island Tour
• Duration: 3 days
• Cost: From $87.18 USD per adult

Baler, Aurora

Located in the northern part of Luzon is the coastal district of Baler, Aurora. Baler is one of the most affordable travel destinations as most of the attractions only charge minimal fees, and the bus rides are definitely cheap. There are a lot of historical sites within this town, including Museo de Baler. It is mostly known as a true haven for surfers because of its surfing waves. The biggest Balete tree in Asia can also be found here. Accommodation costs around $17 only.

• Accommodation: Kahanamoku Bed & Breakfast
• Address: Purok 7, Barangay Zabali, Baler 3200
• Amenities: Coffee Shop, Garden, Beach Access

Camiguin Island

Camiguin Island is the second-smallest island in the Philippines; it is located in the northern part of Mindanao and has so much to offer to every visitor. Despite being a small island, Camiguin is surprisingly packed with a lot of attractions and things to do that are relatively cheap. The lowest price for accommodation is only $5 per night, with free parking and free WiFi. Aside from having one of the most beautiful waters and white sand beaches in the Philippines, Camiguin is also home to hot springs, Nature Park, and waterfalls.

• Recommended Tour: Camiguin Land Tour
• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Cost: From $380 USD per group ( Up to 10)

RELATED: The Philippine's Chocolate Hills Are Considered The 'Eighth Wonder of the World'

Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro

Home to wonderful beaches in the town of Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro. In fact, it was awarded as the World’s Most Beautiful Bay in 2005 by the Les Plus Belles Baies Du Monde, a Paris-based organization. The most popular beach destination in town is White Beach; the most affordable accommodation place here starts at $20 per night. Island hopping is also a top activity by the visitors which is also relatively inexpensive. Visitors can also hike to Tamaraw Falls, a twin waterfall that flows through the human-made swimming pools.

• Recommended Tour: PUERTO GALERA Island Hopping & Snorkeling
• Cost: From $64 USD per adult

Tagaytay City, Cavite

Aside from Antipolo City, Tagaytay is also a go-to place for the people in the metro to unwind. Tagaytay gives a calm feeling to its visitors because of the nature and fresh air in the city. The cheapest thing to do here is to see the Taal Volcano, which features a beautiful sunrise; this is a free experience and a free therapy for some. The famous attraction here, aside from the Taal Volcano is the Sky Ranch, People’s Park in the Sky, Picnic Grove, and many more. Hotels here cost $20 per night.

• Recommended Tour: PanoramicTagaytay Ridge Tour from Manila
• Duration: 7 hours
• Cost: From $150 USD per adult

Baguio City

What’s interesting about Baguio is that most of the popular attractions here are free; all the visitors need is accommodation, bus fare, and food. For only $60 dollars, a person can already have an excellent yet quick vacation. Baguio is truly one of the most beautiful cities in the Philippines, and it provides numerous picturesque views of various attractions. Things to enjoy here include Burnham Park, Mines View Park, Baguio Botanical Garden, Bell Church, Kenon Road, museums, etc. The cheapest comfortable accommodation place costs $10 per night.

• Recommended Tour: Baguio City Tour with Lunch
• Cost: From $105 USD per adult

Bataan, Central Luzon

Located in the region of Central Luzon, Bataan is a destination in the Philippines famous for its history and laid-back atmosphere. All over the city are stunning buildings and memorials that shine a light on the city’s historic past. Besides the history, Bataan is also a place to enjoy relaxation as the city is endowed with charming beaches, impressive waterfalls, and towering mountains. In Bataan, tourists will enjoy activities such as hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Prices for some historic tours in the province may be expensive, but other outdoor activities and things such as transportation and food are cheap even by backpacker standards.

• Recommended Tour: Indigenous Forest Experience Manila 2022
• Duration: 10-12 hours
• Cost: From $160 USD per adult

Intramuros, Manila

Intramuros is one of the numerous historic places one can visit in the Philippines on a budget. Also known as - the Walled City, Intramuros is located in the capital city of the Philippines and is endowed with hundreds of years of Spanish history. During the exploration of this historic area, one will be met with old churches, beautiful stone fortresses, impressive cathedrals, and museums rich with artifacts ranging from cultural to artistic, musical, and historic. Many of these attractions come with surprisingly cheap price tags, and with 30-minute Kasela rides costing less than $10, one can easily drive around and have a wonderful time here without straining their pockets. As with many other parts of the country, food, water, and transportation are budget-friendly in Intramuros.

• Recommended Tour: Experience Intramuros with Bamboo Bicycle - Ecotours
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Cost: From $37.34 USD per adult

Cagsawa Ruins

One of the most unusual attractions in the Philippines is the Cagsawa Ruins. These are the remnants of a 16th-century Franciscan church that was built in the town of Cagsawa in 1587. It had a tumultuous history, first being destroyed by Dutch pirates in 1636 and then destroyed again by a volcanic eruption.

Today, the ruins are located in Barangay Busay, Cagsawa and are protected in Cagsawa Park. The ruins may remind visitors of the famous ruins of Pompeii - the famous Roman city destroyed by a volcano or the Caribbean island of Montserrat's capital of Plymouth, also buried under volcanic ash .

• Duration: 1 Hour
• Cost: Entry Fee Approx. $1

Cebu City is one of the Philippines' top tourist destinations . It is the most populated city in the Visayas and has a population of around 1 million people. It is the hub from which the Visayas revolve and enjoys a booming tourist industry. Around two million foreigner flocks to Cebu annually.

Prime attractions of the city include its white-sand beaches and spectacular diving - plus, it is full of lively bars and emerging eateries. Cebu City is the urban embodiment of tourism in the Philippines. It is also the oldest city in the Philippines and is nicknamed in the Phillippines - the Queen City of the South . Like in the rest of the Philippines, prices in Cebu are rarely great.

• Recommended Tour: Private Cebu & Lapu-Lapu City Tour
• Duration: 6+ Hours

Panglao Island

Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, Panglao offers budget-friendly beachfront accommodations and delectable street food. Adventurers can explore the famed Alona Beach, go island hopping to uninhabited islets, or snorkel at Danao Beach on a shoestring budget. A visit to the Hinagdanan Cave and the historic Baclayon Church adds cultural depth without denting one's wallet. Panglao Island, where thrifty dreams meet tropical paradise.

• Recommended Tour: Bohol Island Countryside Wonders Guided Tour
• Duration: Full Day
• Cost: From $68.00 USD per adult

Boracay, Malay

This tropical haven offers wallet-friendly accommodations in Station 3 and Bulabog Beach, allowing visitors to relish the island's natural beauty without breaking the bank. Budget adventurers can indulge in local street food, embark on island-hopping adventures, and partake in exciting water sports. Boracay's famed White Beach is a cost-free paradise, while sunsets at Willy's Rock are priceless.

• Recommended Tour: Boracay Sunset Cruise
• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: From $16.42 USD per adult

Related: Beachside Adventure: 10 Best Glamping Spots In The Philippines

Iloilo City

This vibrant city offers a range of wallet-friendly accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels. Street food stalls tempt with delectable local dishes at wallet-friendly prices. Exploring the city's rich heritage, including the Molo Church and historic Calle Real, provides an enriching cultural experience without straining one's travel budget. Nearby Guimaras Island, renowned for its sweet mangoes, is easily accessible for budget-conscious adventurers.

• Recommended Tour: Iloilo Fishing Port Tour and Local Market Food Trip
• Cost: From $16.16 USD per adult

This tropical paradise offers a myriad of budget-friendly accommodations, including beachfront hostels and cozy guesthouses in General Luna. Street food stalls dish out mouthwatering local flavors at modest prices. Adventurers can chase waves at Cloud 9 and explore tidal pools and lagoons without splurging. This island paradise's budget requirements are among the lowest travelers can encounter in the Philippines.

• Recommended Tour: Siargao Island Hopping & land Tour
• Duration: 8-10 hours
• Cost: From $107.00 USD per adult

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